Crispy smashed broccoli is an easy vegan appetizer to roast in the oven or cook on the stovetop. It’s fun to smash the broccoli florets into flat pieces and relatively low effort.These thin, almost chip-like pieces of broccoli are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce like vegan ranch dressing.
2tablespoonsolive oilmore as needed to coat the pan
saltto taste
Instructions
Defrost frozen broccoli florets in the fridge for about a day. Alternatively, microwave frozen florets for about 2 minutes or until they are soft enough to smash.If you're starting with head of fresh broccoli, trim off the florets then blanch or steam them.
16 ounces broccoli florets
Spread out your broccoli florets on a cutting board and smash each one with a wooden spatula.
Oven Method (Preferred)
Place a clean metal pan in the oven. Preheat the oven and pan to 425°F.
Drizzle olive oil over the pan then place the smashed broccoli florets on top.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Return the pan to the oven and cook for 15 minutes.
Remove the pan from the oven and use a metal spatula to individually flip eat floret.
Return the pan to the oven and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, just until both sides are crispy.
Stovetop Method
Preheat a pan on the stovetop to medium high heat. I used a stainless steel pan and check for the leidenfrost effect.
Turn the heat down to medium. Drizzle olive oil over the pan then place the smashed broccoli florets on top. Work in batches so you don't overcrowd the pan.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cook until the side touching the pan is crispy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Flip each floret and cook until the other side is crispy, an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
To Serve
Sprinkle smashed broccoli with pink salt or your favorite seasoning blend.