I am a big fan of roasted broccoli because it’s just as easy but so much more interesting (and tasty) than steamed broccoli. But Crunchy Pepperoni Baked Broccoli? Well that’s like a whole ‘nother level of vegetable side. See, with this it’s not just about the broccoli, it’s also about the flavor of salty, spicy pepperoni, tangy Dijon mustard, and crunchy Panko breadcrumbs and just trust me that it’s a combination not to be missed.

The combination might seem weird, I know. But just trust that it’s not – it works and it works oh so well. Broccoli is perfect for this (cauliflower would probably work too) because it’s such a mild veggie, so it doesn’t compete with the bold flavor of pepperoni and Dijon. Instead it’s more of a carrier for those flavors… a vehicle to get all that salty, crispy, deliciousness into your mouth. (But, hey, you still get your veggies in!)

This is no ordinary bland vegetable side. No, this is a zippy, zesty, steal-the-show kind of side that the whole family loves. And getting kids excited about broccoli? Well, that’s a major triumph.