If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, crispy, and utterly delicious side dish, the Roasted Broccoli with Toasted Pangritata Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This dish perfectly balances the tender, slightly charred broccoli florets with the irresistible crunch and subtle nutty flavor of toasted pangritata—homemade or panko breadcrumbs toasted alongside savory parmesan. Every bite bursts with texture and flavor, making it a fantastic way to elevate simple broccoli into something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple but powerful with these essential ingredients that bring together freshness, crispness, and savory depth. Each component plays a crucial role in creating this mouthwatering side dish, from the tender broccoli to the golden pangritata topping.
- Broccoli florets: Choose one large head or two small ones for the perfect tender-crisp base packed with green goodness.
- Olive oil: Used twice to ensure the broccoli roasts beautifully and the breadcrumbs toast up golden and flavorful.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors and seasons both broccoli and pangritata evenly.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild kick that complements the buttery crunch of the topping.
- Breadcrumbs: Homemade, chunkier breadcrumbs or panko work best for that perfect texture contrast.
- Finely grated Parmesan (optional): Adds a rich, savory, slightly salty note that melts into the toasted crumbs.
How to Make Roasted Broccoli with Toasted Pangritata Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Broccoli
Start by tossing your broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple but essential step ensures each floret is coated with flavorful oil and seasoning, setting the stage for roasting that brings out their natural sweetness and a little char.
Step 2: Initial Roasting of Broccoli
Spread the seasoned broccoli evenly on a baking tray and roast in a 350F (180C) oven for about 10 minutes. You’re aiming for them to soften just slightly and develop engaging caramelized edges but not be fully tender yet—this will ensure they keep some bite when finished.
Step 3: Mix the Pangritata
While the broccoli roasts, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This mixture will transform into the golden, crunchy topping that gives this recipe its signature appeal.
Step 4: Combine and Prepare for Final Roast
When the broccoli looks close to done, remove the tray from the oven. Gently shift the roasted broccoli to one side, creating space to spread out your breadcrumb mixture on the tray. This ensures both elements toast correctly without steaming each other.
Step 5: Toast Together Until Golden
Return the tray to the oven and roast for about 12 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn a vibrant golden brown. Keep a close watch because breadcrumbs can go from golden to burnt quickly. The result is a beautifully toasted pangritata crust that’s nutty and crunchy, complementing the soft broccoli perfectly.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once done, carefully combine the broccoli and toasted pangritata in a serving bowl. Toss gently to distribute the golden crumbs evenly. The contrast of textures here is absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Roasted Broccoli with Toasted Pangritata Recipe
Garnishes
Add a final flourish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes for some zing. Fresh chopped parsley or basil can also add a pop of color and a burst of herbaceous freshness that elevates the whole dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian spread. It’s a fantastic side to accompany pasta dishes or grain bowls, providing much-needed texture and a savory bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try presenting the roasted broccoli with toasted pangritata over a base of creamy polenta or tossed into a warm grain salad for dinner guests. You can also sprinkle additional fresh Parmesan on top or drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving for an extra layer of indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The broccoli may soften a bit over time, so it’s best enjoyed within this window for optimal crispness and flavor.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze well as the broccoli will lose its texture and the pangritata can become soggy. It’s best to enjoy fresh or store refrigerated for short-term use.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers on a baking tray and warm in a 350F (180C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This helps crisp up the pangritata again and warms the broccoli without steaming it too much.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs for the pangritata?
Absolutely! While homemade breadcrumbs add rustic texture, good quality panko or even plain store-bought breadcrumbs work well. Just make sure they are a bit chunkier if possible to get the best crunch.
Is the Parmesan cheese necessary?
Parmesan adds a lovely savory note and richness, but it’s totally optional. You can skip it for a dairy-free version or try a nutritional yeast sprinkle for a cheesy flavor alternative.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative, and use olive oil as specified. The dish will still be deliciously crispy and flavorful.
What temperature is best for roasting broccoli?
Roasting at 350F (180C) allows the broccoli to cook through gently while developing tasty caramelized edges without burning. It’s a perfect balance for the combined cooking with the pangritata.
Can I add other seasonings or spices?
Definitely! Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes are all great additions to sprinkle on the broccoli before roasting to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Roasted Broccoli with Toasted Pangritata Recipe that makes it a standout side dish for any meal. Its combination of roasted tenderness and crunchy, buttery breadcrumbs is pure comfort food with a fresh, elegant twist. Give it a try next time you want to impress friends or simply elevate your weeknight dinners—it just might become your go-to broccoli recipe too!
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Roasted Broccoli with Toasted Pangritata Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Broccoli with Toasted Pangritata recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful way to enjoy broccoli. Roasting the broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and tender texture, while the toasted pangritata—made from homemade breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and olive oil—adds a delightful crunch and savory depth. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this easy and quick recipe is sure to elevate your vegetable game.
Ingredients
Broccoli
- 1 large broccoli or 2 small, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Toasted Pangritata (Breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup homemade breadcrumbs (chunkier the better) or panko
- 3 tbsp finely grated Parmesan (optional)
- 1 tbsp extra olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Toss Broccoli: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated.
- Initial Roast: Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is slightly softened and starting to brown on the edges.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mix: While the broccoli cooks, combine the homemade breadcrumbs, finely grated Parmesan cheese (if using), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl, mixing well to coat all the crumbs.
- Arrange for Final Roast: Remove the tray from the oven and push the broccoli to one side, creating space to spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly on the other side of the tray.
- Final Roast: Return the tray to the oven and roast the broccoli and breadcrumbs together for approximately 12 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and toasted. Keep a close eye to avoid burning as the breadcrumbs cook quickly.
- Serve: Combine the roasted broccoli and toasted pangritata by mixing them together in a serving bowl. Serve warm as a flavorful and crunchy side dish.
Notes
- For homemade breadcrumbs, use day-old bread torn into chunks and pulse briefly in a food processor for a chunkier texture.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice umami flavor—omit for a vegetarian option that excludes cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs when roasting as they can burn quickly once golden.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
