Parmesan-Roasted Broccoli

Because one cannot live on Easter candy alone I made Parmesan-Roasted Broccoli. In the winter I love to roast all sorts of root vegetables but in the Spring that feels too heavy. This recipe provides the deep flavors of roasting with the freshness of crisp broccoli, basil and lots of lemon zest. Easter side dish done!

(photo by Freutcake)

Parmesan-Roasted Broccoli: Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics Cookbook

4 to 5 pounds broccoli
4 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced
Good olive oil
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted (how-to here)
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons julienned fresh basil leaves (about 12 leaves)

Directions: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Cut the broccoli florets from the thick stalks, leaving an inch or two of stalk attached to the florets, discarding the rest of the stalks. Cut the larger pieces through the base of the head with a small knife, pulling the florets apart. You should have about 8 cups of florets. Place the broccoli florets on a sheet pan large enough to hold them in a single layer. Toss the garlic on the broccoli and drizzle with 5 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, until crisp-tender and the tips of some of the florets are browned.

Remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately toss with 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, the lemon zest, lemon juice, pine nuts, Parmesan, and basil. Serve hot.

P.S. Eager to eat, I took this picture before sprinkling with parmesan cheese. Oops.