Roasted Broccoli With Garlic

A Gorgeous Broccoli Display At Our Local Whole Foods

I love broccoli.  But, it takes a little bit of love to make it properly.  You can’t just throw it in a pot of boiling water and forget about it.  Well, actually, i suppose you can.  But, you won’t enjoy the results.  Give it a little bit of love and you will be rewarded for your efforts.

Roasted Broccoli With Garlic
about 4 large servings

1 head of broccoli
4 cloves garlic, diced
3 cloves garlic, crushed
5 Tablespoons butter
red pepper flakes, to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
about 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to your taste
1 lemon, halved
1 teaspoon lemon zest, if desired
1/4 cup pine nuts

Wash broccoli.  Cut off woody end stalk, if necessary.  Slice into long strips.  Blanch in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes in a large dutch oven filled with boiling water.  Drain and place in a large bowl of ice water.  Return dutch oven to the stovetop.  Add about 1/2 cup water and 5 Tablespoons butter.  Melt butter over low heat.  Add garlic, pepper, and salt.  Drain broccoli and toss in the butter mixture.  Then, spread broccoli pieces flat on a baking sheet.  Roast at 425 degrees F.  After 15 minutes squeeze lemon over broccoli.  Top with pine nuts and a delicate sprinkle of lemon zest.  Roast until golden edges appear.  This will probably take 25-30 minutes depending on the size of your pieces.  Broccoli should be very tender touched with golden brown edges.

Serve with grilled or roast chicken (or salmon).