Roasted Broccoli With Bacon

Tender broccoli florets are a great compliment to smoky bacon, especially when rounded out with some caramelized garlic cloves. This easy side dish comes together with minimal prep. The high heat crisps the edges of the broccoli nicely, and brings the fat out of the bacon, infusing the florets with flavor. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar is optional but recommended. It turns this low-maintenance weeknight dish into something truly special.

Ingredients

• 1 pound broccoli florets (or use 1 1-pound head broccoli, cut into florets)
• 4 slices bacon, cut into bite-size pieces
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
• 2 shallots, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal) and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons good-quality balsamic vinegar, preferably aged (optional)

Steps

1. Arrange an oven rack in the middle of the oven. Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On the baking sheet or in a large bowl, mix together broccoli, bacon, garlic, olive oil, shallots, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Spread the broccoli and bacon in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Bake until broccoli is browned and crisp, 30 to 35 minutes, rotating the baking sheet and stirring the broccoli halfway through. Transfer to a serving tray leaving behind any remaining oil. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if using.