Roasted Broccoli Recipe
There’s something truly magical about the transformation that happens in your oven when you make roasted broccoli. The humble green florets take on crispy edges, a nutty aroma, and a surprisingly addictive flavor that disappears fast the moment you serve it. If you’re looking for a smart, simple side dish that packs flavor, texture, and color all in one, this roasted broccoli is guaranteed to earn a regular spot at your table. It’s endlessly versatile, quick to make, and always brings a burst of happy green to any meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Roasted broccoli shines with just a handful of good ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in making this dish beautifully crisp, flavorful, and vibrant. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips for even more delicious results:
- Broccoli florets: The star of the show! Cut from a fresh head, florets get deliciously tender with irresistible crispy bits.
- Olive oil: Gives every floret its golden edges while locking in moisture and flavor.
- Salt: Draws out the best flavor from broccoli and ensures every bite is seasoned just right.
- Black pepper: Adds a little gentle heat and balance to the earthiness of the broccoli.
- Garlic powder: Delivers that extra savory punch, blending seamlessly into every nook and cranny.
- Lemon juice (optional): For a bright, zesty finish that makes the broccoli pop—try freshly squeezed!
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkled on just before serving, this adds salty richness and even more crispy texture.
How to Make Roasted Broccoli
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is your secret weapon for those beautifully browned, crispy tips, and it ensures your roasted broccoli cooks quickly and evenly.
Step 2: Prep the Broccoli
Wash your broccoli thoroughly, then cut it into even-sized florets—this step is key for even roasting. Dry the pieces well so the olive oil adheres and the florets roast instead of steam.
Step 3: Toss with Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Give it all a good toss, making sure every floret is coated from top to stem. This is where the flavor magic begins!
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Spread your seasoned broccoli on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd—each piece needs space to crisp up. If the florets are too close, they’ll steam and miss out on those coveted crunchy edges.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Roast the broccoli for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the edges are deeply golden and the stems are tender. Your kitchen will smell fantastic—watch as the florets caramelize and crisp up right before your eyes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the roasted broccoli from the oven and, while it’s still hot, drizzle with fresh lemon juice for that extra burst of brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Serve immediately—you won’t want to wait!
How to Serve Roasted Broccoli
Garnishes
A few finishing touches can elevate your roasted broccoli from simple to spectacular. Try a last-minute sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. A handful of toasted nuts, like almonds or pine nuts, can add crunch. And don’t forget about that optional Parmesan—the crispy, salty layer is pure magic.
Side Dishes
Roasted broccoli complements just about any main course! Pair it with grilled salmon, juicy roasted chicken, or even a hearty pasta for a nutritious pop of green. It’s also delicious next to roasted potatoes, quinoa bowls, or atop a warm grain salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Surprise your guests by piling the roasted broccoli onto a serving platter with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or scatter it among other roasted veggies for a colorful medley. You can even toss the roasted broccoli into pasta, stir it into risotto, or pile it onto a crunchy crostini for a party-perfect appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roasted broccoli can be stored easily. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavor deepens overnight, making it great to enjoy in salads or grain bowls.
Freezing
While roasted broccoli is best when fresh, you can freeze leftovers for another time. Spread cooled florets on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then move them to a sealed bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and are perfect for tossing into soups or casseroles.
Reheating
Reheat roasted broccoli in a hot oven or toaster oven at 400°F for just a few minutes—this revives that glorious crispiness. The microwave works in a pinch, but the florets will be softer. A quick sauté in a skillet is another fun way to bring back some of the original texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for roasted broccoli?
Absolutely! While fresh gives the crispiest results, you can roast frozen broccoli straight from the freezer. Just pat the florets as dry as possible and increase the oven time by a few minutes to ensure they crisp up.
How do I keep roasted broccoli from getting soggy?
The key is plenty of heat and not overcrowding the pan. Make sure there’s space between the florets so they roast, not steam, and always start with a properly preheated oven.
Is roasted broccoli healthy?
Roasted broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients! It offers fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, all for very few calories. Plus, it’s low in fat and you can control the amount of salt and oil you use.
What other seasonings work well with roasted broccoli?
Feel free to experiment! Try smoked paprika, nutritional yeast for a savory twist, curry powder, or even a hint of cumin. Roasted broccoli is a flavor chameleon—it loves new profiles.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Just be sure to spread the broccoli across two sheets so every piece gets enough airflow for those signature crispy bits. Rotate the trays halfway through roasting for totally even results.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this roasted broccoli, you’ll see why it’s a staple on so many dinner tables—including mine! Give it a go for your next meal and prepare to watch it disappear. You might even catch yourself craving broccoli as a snack—yes, it’s that good!
Print
Roasted Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Roasted Broccoli recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, the broccoli is seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and lemon for a delightful side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli (about 1.5 pounds), cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional:
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl until coated.
- Roast the broccoli: Spread the seasoned broccoli on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
