If you're looking to elevate your vegetable game, look no further than this irresistible Charred Broccoli with Italian Dressing! This simple yet flavorful dish transforms humble broccoli florets into a crispy, caramelized delight that’s bursting with Italian flair. Perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack, this recipe takes just 25 minutes from prep to plate, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests with this easy-to-follow recipe that proves healthy eating can be both delicious and exciting!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and position the rack in the upper third of the oven to ensure optimal charring.
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water and pat completely dry using paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent proper charring.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This will help promote even browning and prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the oiled broccoli. Use your hands to mix and distribute the seasonings uniformly.
- Spread the seasoned broccoli florets in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation and charring.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, turning the broccoli once halfway through cooking to ensure even charring on all sides.
- Remove from the oven when the broccoli edges are deeply caramelized and crispy, with some dark brown and slightly charred spots.
- Transfer the charred broccoli to a serving platter and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally drizzling with additional olive oil or fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Broccoli: For the best results, select vibrant green broccoli florets that are firm and free from blemishes. Freshness enhances both flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Drying Step: After washing, make sure to thoroughly dry the broccoli. Excess moisture can steam the florets instead of allowing them to char, resulting in a less desirable texture.
- Use High Heat: Preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C) is crucial for achieving that perfect char. The high temperature will help caramelize the edges while keeping the insides tender.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which will prevent that delightful char from forming.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While Italian seasoning is a fantastic choice, feel free to mix it up! Adding garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or even a squeeze of lemon can enhance the flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your charred broccoli right after it comes out of the oven. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add an extra layer of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
