Charred Broccoli Salad (Printable)

Vibrant roasted broccoli combined with lemon zest and Parmesan for a fresh, smoky dish.

# Ingredient list:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large head broccoli (approximately 1.1 lbs), cut into florets
02 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

03 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
05 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
06 - ½ tsp sea salt
07 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

08 - ⅓ cup shaved Parmesan cheese (about 1.4 oz)
09 - 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional)
10 - Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F or air fryer to 400°F.
02 - Toss broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, half of the lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper.
03 - Arrange broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Roast or air-fry for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once, until edges are charred and broccoli is just tender.
04 - During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the sliced red onion to the baking sheet or air fryer basket if using.
05 - While broccoli roasts, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and remaining lemon zest in a large bowl.
06 - Add hot charred broccoli and onions (if used) to the bowl with dressing. Toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
07 - Transfer to a serving platter and top with shaved Parmesan, toasted nuts, and chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The char creates a crispy, caramelized exterior that tastes nothing like steamed broccoli you might remember from childhood.
  • It comes together in under 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something that feels special but doesn't demand hours in the kitchen.
  • The bright lemon and nutty Parmesan balance the smokiness in a way that makes you want to keep eating even when you're full.
02 -
  • Don't wash the broccoli right before cooking; excess water will steam it instead of letting it char, so pat it completely dry after washing.
  • The dressing needs acid (lemon juice) to balance the richness of the oil and cheese, so don't skimp on the citrus or substitute it with vinegar alone.
03 -
  • If you're using an air fryer, watch the broccoli carefully as it can char more quickly than in an oven; check at the 10-minute mark and adjust from there.
  • Make the dressing while the broccoli roasts so it's ready to go the moment everything comes out of the oven and the broccoli is still hot enough to absorb all those flavors.
Return