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Broccoli with Smoked Paprika and Toasted Garlic Breadcrumbs

Broccoli with Smoked Paprika and Toasted Garlic Breadcrumbs

By Rose HattabaughOctober 17, 2023

  • Makes
    4 servings
  • Cook Time
    20 minutes
  • Rating

In this texture-packed dish, a combination of browned garlic, smoky paprika and crisp breadcrumbs—inspired by the Catalan sauce picada—enhances skillet-cooked broccoli. After being seared in a hot pan, the broccoli is combined with water, quickly covered and steamed until tender-crisp. Added just before serving, a good dose of fresh thyme and a splash of woodsy-sweet sherry vinegar bring bright, fresh notes.

Ingredients
  • 4

    tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • ⅓

    cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 3

    medium garlic cloves, minced

  • ½

    teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1

    pound broccoli crowns, cut into 1- to 1½-inch florets

  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper

  • 1

    tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

  • 1

    tablespoon sherry vinegar

Step 1

In a 12-inch skillet over medium, heat 2 tablespoons oil until shimmering. Add the panko and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic and smoked paprika; cook until the panko is deep golden brown and the garlic no longer is raw, about 1 minute. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside; wipe out the skillet.

Step 2

In the same skillet over medium-high, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons oil until barely smoking. Add the broccoli and stir to coat, then sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper and distribute in an even layer. Cook, stirring only a few times, until lightly charred, about 4 minutes. Add ¼ cup water, then immediately cover. Reduce to medium and cook, occasionally shaking the pan, until the water has cooked off and the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 4 minutes.

Step 3

Off heat, stir in the thyme and vinegar. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with the panko mixture.

Step 4

Optional garnish: Toasted sliced or slivered almonds OR shaved manchego cheese OR both