Roast Broccoli

The first time I made Roast Broccoli, I was skeptical. I had always thought of broccoli as a boring vegetable, something to merely endure on my plate. But one evening, in an attempt to turn my infamous dislike of this green into something delightful, I decided to give roasting a try. I tossed the florets in some olive oil and added a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible. The broccoli took on a beautiful golden hue, crisping up in the oven, while the edges browned just perfectly. When it finally came out, I could hardly believe my taste buds. This was not just healthy; it was delicious!

Now, every time I serve Roast Broccoli, I see the same transformation in others. Guests who normally shy away from greens can’t resist the crispy goodness that roasting brings out. It’s become a staple in my home, and whether it’s paired with a main dish or served on its own, it always impresses. I love that it’s so simple yet so satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get those nutritious greens into our diet without compromising on flavor.

So, if you’re looking for a way to elevate your veggie game, I highly recommend trying out this method. I promise you’ll be surprised at how delightful Roast Broccoli can be!

What’s In This Roast Broccoli

When it comes to the ingredients for Roast Broccoli, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The main star, of course, is the fresh broccoli, which becomes tender and flavorful through roasting. The addition of olive oil helps achieve that wonderful crispiness, while garlic adds a delightful aromatic touch. Parmesan cheese brings a savory richness that complements the natural flavors of the broccoli beautifully.

• 2 pounds broccoli florets from 3 stalks broccoli – Freshness is key here! Choose bright green florets for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup olive oil – This adds healthy fats and helps achieve that crispiness we all love.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds an aromatic, savory flavor to the dish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – A delicious finishing touch that adds nuttiness.
• Lemon wedges for serving – A squeeze of lemon elevates the flavors beautifully!

How to Prepare Roast Broccoli

Making Roast Broccoli is as easy as it gets! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a side dish that’s flavorful and nutritious. Ready your oven, and let’s get started!

1. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. A hot oven is essential for that perfect roast!
2. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. I like to add at least a half teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of pepper. Toss everything until the broccoli is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the seasoned broccoli to a prepared baking sheet, making sure to spread it in an even layer. This helps ensure that each floret gets the perfect roast.
4. Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven until the florets are tender-crisp and beginning to brown around the edges, typically about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking; you want them crispy, not mushy!
5. Once roasted, remove the broccoli from the oven. Sprinkle the hot florets with Parmesan cheese, allowing the heat to melt the cheese slightly.
6. Serve the Roast Broccoli hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the roasted goodness.

Change It Up

Feeling adventurous? Here are some great ways to customize your Roast Broccoli experience:

• Add Spices: Experiment with adding spices like chili flakes or smoked paprika to give it an extra kick.
• Cheese Variations: Instead of Parmesan cheese, try using grated Asiago or pecorino for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in Other Veggies: Combine broccoli with other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for a colorful medley.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for an aromatic boost.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts before serving for added texture.

What to Pair With Roast Broccoli

Knowing how to serve your Roast Broccoli can elevate your meal. Here’s how to do it:

• Grilled Chicken: Pair it with juicy grilled chicken for a hearty dinner.
• Fish Dishes: It complements well with baked or grilled fish, adding a nutritious side.
• Pasta: Toss it into pasta dishes for an added vegetable boost.
• Quinoa Bowls: Mix with quinoa, chickpeas, and tahini for a vibrant grain bowl.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch for easy lunch options throughout the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Roast Broccoli is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms a humble vegetable into a flavorful side. It’s quick to prepare and can easily be adapted to suit your preferences. I encourage you to try making it; you might just find it becoming a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the deliciousness of roasted vegetables, and share this newfound love for broccoli with your family and friends!

Roast Broccoli

The ultimate side dish that’s both healthy and delicious! Roast Broccoli is easy to prepare and bursts with flavor. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli, making it a crave-worthy addition to any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds broccoli florets from 3 stalks broccoli
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• to serve lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Transfer the seasoned broccoli to a prepared baking sheet and spread in an even layer.
4. Roast until tender-crisp and browning around the edges, about 20 to 25 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while hot.
6. Serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• Broccoli: Trim off the dry woody part of the stem, but cut florets to even sizes for even cooking.
• Parmesan cheese: Any hard, aged cheese will work well, like Asiago or pecorino.
• Yield: This recipe makes about 8 cups of roasted broccoli.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.