Harissa Broccoli and Flatbreads

The first time I brought harissa broccoli to a dinner party, my friend Sarah literally stopped mid-conversation after her first bite. She called it the broccoli that makes people stop talking, and honestly, shes not wrong. Theres something about that spicy, charred perfection against warm bread that just works.

Last Tuesday, I made this for my family after a particularly chaotic day at work. My teenage son, who usually regards vegetables with suspicion, went back for thirds. Watching everyone pull pieces of broccoli and bread from the platter, hands reaching across the table, felt like the best kind of victory.

Ingredients

• 2 large heads broccoli: Fresh is non-negotiable here, the florets roast up beautifully and catch all that harissa flavor in their little tree-like crevices
• 3 tbsp harissa paste: This North African chili paste brings the heat and depth, adjust based on your spice tolerance but dont be too shy with it
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the harissa coat everything evenly and promotes that gorgeous crispy charring we want
• 1 lemon: Cut into wedges for squeezing over the finished dish, that acid cuts through the rich spices perfectly
• 4 large flatbreads: Naan works beautifully, but a good pita or even homemade flatbread will do the job of catching all those flavorful juices
• Greek yogurt and fresh cilantro: The cooling counterpoint to the heat, and honestly, what makes this feel like a complete meal rather than just roasted vegetables

Instructions

Get your oven nice and hot:

Preheat to 220°C, that high temperature is what will give you the crispy, slightly charred edges that make this dish sing

Coat the broccoli:

Toss those florets with the harissa and olive oil until every piece is wearing that spicy red coat like its going to a party

Roast until perfect:

Spread everything in a single layer and let the oven work its magic for about 20 minutes, turning once so both sides get that gorgeous color

Warm the bread:

Toss the flatbreads in for the last 5 minutes, either on a lower rack or directly on the rack, so theyre warm and ready to receive

Bring it all together:

Pile that spicy broccoli onto the warm flatbreads, squeeze lemon over everything, and add those cooling dollops of yogurt and fresh cilantro

Save

This recipe has become my go-to when friends come over unexpectedly. The way the kitchen smells when that harissa hits the hot oven, filling every corner of the house with this warm, inviting spice, its like signaling that something good is about to happen.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I crumble feta over the top instead of yogurt, or add toasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch. My neighbor adds preserved lemon to the broccoli before roasting, which takes it in this completely wonderful direction. The beauty is in how adaptable it is while still being recognizably itself.

The Bread Game

Ive learned that good bread matters here. Store-bought naan works in a pinch, but if you can get your hands on fresh-baked flatbreads from a local bakery, the difference is night and day. The way a really good bread soaks up those spicy juices without falling apart, its what elevates this from weeknight dinner to something special.

Leftovers (If You Have Them)

Truth be told, leftovers are rare in my house, but on the occasions theyve happened, Ive discovered that the flavors deepen overnight. The broccoli softens a bit but becomes almost sweeter, more concentrated. If you do have extras, theyre perfect for a quick lunch the next day.

• Store everything separately if you can, so the bread doesnt get soggy
• A quick 5-minute reheat in the oven brings back that crispy edge
• The yogurt and cilantro are best added fresh, not reheated

Save

Theres something deeply satisfying about a meal that comes together so simply yet tastes so complex. This is the kind of food that makes people feel taken care of, and really, isnt that the whole point of cooking?

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

The heat level can be easily modified by adjusting the amount of harissa paste used. For a milder flavor, use less, or for a bolder kick, add a bit more to the broccoli before roasting.

→ What are some good protein additions for this meal?

For extra protein, consider sprinkling crumbled feta cheese or toasted chickpeas over the finished dish. Cooked lentils or grilled halloumi would also make excellent additions.

→ Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes, this dish is easily adaptable for a vegan diet. Simply ensure your flatbreads are vegan-friendly and substitute the Greek yogurt garnish with a plant-based alternative.

→ What kind of flatbreads work best for serving?

Naan or pita breads are excellent choices and warm beautifully in the oven alongside the broccoli. You can also use other soft flatbreads like lavash or even tortillas if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the broccoli gently in the oven or microwave, and warm the flatbreads separately.

→ What side dishes pair well with harissa broccoli and flatbreads?

This dish is quite substantial on its own. However, a light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple side of quinoa would complement it beautifully.