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Sizzling Broccoli with Garlic, Chili & Crispy Breadcrumbs

weeknightvegetarianboldquick
5 minPrep12 minCook4Serves

Ingredients

  • 1½ poundsbroccoli
  • 6 clovesgarlic
  • ½ teaspoonred pepper flakes
  • 4 tablespoonolive oil
  • ½ cuppanko breadcrumbs
  • ·salt
  • ·black pepper
  • 1lemon

Prep

  1. 01

    Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.

  2. 02

    Mince 6 cloves garlic.

Method

  1. 01

    Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring often, for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then transfer to a small bowl.

  2. 02

    Add remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until aromatic and just beginning to brown.

  3. 03

    Add broccoli florets and toss to coat. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring every 1–2 minutes, until tender-crisp and lightly charred at the edges.

  4. 04

    Squeeze lemon juice over the broccoli, taste, and adjust salt and pepper. Top with the crispy breadcrumb mixture and serve immediately.

Spice Tips

The red pepper flakes deliver a gentle heat that builds as you eat. Want more kick? Stir in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper with the garlic, or finish with a few dashes of sriracha or sambal oelek. For a different depth, swap paprika or Aleppo pepper for the red pepper flakes—same amount, different flavor profile.

This comes together in about 15 minutes. For extra heat, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce at the end.

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