Roasting broccoli transforms this humble vegetable into something truly extraordinary. The high heat caramelizes the edges, giving it a delightful crunch and a sweet, nutty flavor. If you’ve been searching for the roasted broccoli recipe, look no further. I’ll guide you through how to cook broccoli perfectly every time for dinner or any occasion.

Active Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make the caramelized broccoli:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli. Moisture can prevent the broccoli from roasting properly, so make sure it’s completely dry. Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking.

Cooking

1. Toss the broccoli florets in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Make sure every piece is well-coated.
2. Spread the broccoli out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Overcrowding will cause steaming rather than roasting, so give the florets some space.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are caramelized and crispy. Shake the pan halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.
4. Once out of the oven, zest a lemon over the hot broccoli. The citrus adds a wonderful brightness to the dish.

Serving

Transfer the roasted broccoli to a serving dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. This adds a nice savory touch and a bit of extra richness. Serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy.

Nutrition Facts

For those mindful of their intake, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Tips and Variations

• Add nuts: Toasted almonds or pine nuts add a great crunch.
• Mix in other veggies: Combine with cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for a veggie medley.
• Use different cheeses: Try crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: A dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of Sriracha can add a new dimension to the dish.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook broccoli perfectly with this roasted broccoli recipe will change the way you view this green veggie. The caramelized edges and tender stalks are irresistible. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main event, it’s sure to be a hit. Experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own. Enjoy your delicious, healthy roasted broccoli!