If you’ve ever come across the intriguing vegetable known as romanesco, you may have been unsure of what to do with it. With its unique appearance resembling alien architecture, it may seem intimidating at first. But fear not! I’m here to show you a delicious and simple way to enjoy this vegetable by roasting it Roman style.
Preparing the Romanesco
To start, you’ll want to cut off any tough stems and leaves from the outside of the romanesco. Then, with a sharp knife, you’ll separate the broccoli-like florets from the stem. Cut the stem into quarters and if necessary, trim off any remaining tough stems on the outside. Next, cut the romanesco into quarters, making sure to cut through the center of the core. This will create more even portions for roasting.
Creating the Dressing
To make the dressing, you’ll need a few anchovy fillets, olive oil, butter, red pepper flakes, garlic, and lemon juice. Mash the anchovy fillets with a fork in a bowl, then add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
Coating the Romanesco
After preparing the romanesco and dressing, it’s time to coat the vegetable. Toss the romanesco quarters in the dressing until they are completely coated. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese over the top and give it another toss to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Roasting the Romanesco
Place the coated romanesco quarters in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in a preheated oven at 475°F for about 20 minutes, or until the romanesco is tender and nicely browned.
Serving the Roasted Romanesco
Once roasted, remove the romanesco from the oven and garnish with lemon wedges before serving. This dish is delicious as a side dish or can be enjoyed on its own. The romanesco’s unique flavor, resembling a cross between cauliflower and broccoli, makes it a delightful addition to any meal. Pair it with a flavorful garlic aioli for an extra burst of taste.
Next time you come across this strange-looking vegetable, don’t be afraid to give it a try. With this simple roasted Romanesco recipe, you can enjoy its delicious flavors and unique appearance. So go ahead, be adventurous, and give it a chance. You won’t be disappointed!