Roasted Buttermilk-Brined Broccoli With Preserved Lemon

1. 1

   Mix together buttermilk and preserved lemon brine. Place broccoli in a gallon-sized plastic zipper-lock bag. Pour in the brine. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible and rotating the bag several times to thoroughly coat the broccoli in the brine. (The broccoli won't be fully submerged.) Lay the bag flat; soak for about 1 hour at room temperature. I like to flip the bag a few times to evenly distribute the brine.

2. 2

   Heat oven to 425u00b0F. Line a sheet pan with parchment.

3. 3

   Drain the broccoli in a colander, shaking most of the brine off. Place the broccoli and sliced red onion on the sheet pan, and toss with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and kosher salt and black pepper, to taste. (Taste a piece of the brined broccoli to guide the amount of salt you use.) Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender, crispy, and charred (or less time if you like your broccoli a little crunchy). Note: the brine that clings to the florets will cause the broccoli to steam-roast in the oven, and once it evaporates, the broccoli will start to brown. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, in a nonstick skillet, heat 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, or enough to cover the bottom of the skillet. Add the panko, stirring to evenly coat with the olive oil. Once the panko has started to brown, add minced preserved lemon peel, sumac, and a pinch of salt. Continue to toast until the crumbs are golden brown. Off the heat, stir in the dill.

5. 5

   Squeeze a little lemon juice over the roasted broccoli (to taste) and toss in the sumac crumbs to evenly coat. Transfer to a serving platter or dish. Serve warm.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.