Crispy Smashed Broccoli Recipe Is All the Rage (High-Protein, 4 Ingredients, 15 Minutes) High Protein Recipes Side Dishes Vegetables Went Viral Snacks Vegetarian Gluten-free Low Sugar Recipes

I love broccoli, and obviously a lot of people do because this broccoli recipe was trending. I'm always looking for new broccoli recipes to showcase my favorite vegetable. This wonderful smashed broccoli recipe is so easy and is on the table in about 15 minutes. The broccoli is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. You cannot go wrong with this vegetable side dish!

To make this smashed broccoli you will need broccoli florets (check out the health benefits of broccoli), olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese and a balsamic glaze for drizzling. The broccoli is quickly boiled, then drained and put onto a baking sheet. Next you get to smash the broccoli until it's flat, which helps it get crispy and delicious.

Balsamic glaze is thicker than balsamic vinegar. You can buy balsamic glaze at the grocery or heat 1 cup of good balsamic vinegar in a frying pan on medium and stir until it reduces to 1/4 cup.

Serve the low-sodium, gluten-free smashed broccoli as a side dish with any protein you enjoy, like chicken, pork, lamb, beef or seafood. These broccoli bites would also be a delicious and healthy snack between meals or a fun appetizer with a side of ranch dressing.

Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 cups bite-size broccoli florets (about 1 pound)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

Here's how to make it: 

1. Turn oven on to broil with the rack 6 inches from the top of the oven. Place a large saucepot filled with water on high to boil. When the water boils place the florets into the water and boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Don't overcook the broccoli. It should be tender but not mushy. (Try this recipe with cauliflower or brussels sprouts.)
2. Drain the broccoli well and then place onto a high-sided baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or mason jar, flatten the broccoli.
4. Drizzle it with olive oil, salt and pepper and place into the oven for 6 to 7 minutes. (I used about 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper.)
5. Remove pan from oven sprinkle with Parmesan. Place back into the oven and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until cheese is brown and melted. Place on a serving dish and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the microwave.

Recipe cooking times, nutritional information and servings are approximate and provided for your convenience. However, 30Seconds is not responsible for the outcome of any recipe, nor may you have the same results because of variations in ingredients, temperatures, altitude, errors, omissions or cooking/baking abilities. Any nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and it is up to the individual to ascertain accuracy. To ensure image quality, we may occasionally use stock photography.

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