Roasted Broccoli

When it comes to easy and delicious side dishes, Roasted Broccoli is a timeless favorite in my kitchen. I remember the first time I decided to make it; I wanted something green and healthy to accompany my meal, but I also craved that satisfying crunch. As soon as I took the first bite, I was hooked! The way the edges get crispy while the insides remain tender is nothing short of magic. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare that I often find myself making it on busy weeknights or when I have friends over for dinner. Each time, I discover new ways to enjoy this delightful vegetable, whether dressed simply with olive oil or topped with something special.

What to Gather for Roasted Broccoli

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Roasted Broccoli truly shine. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, using just a few fresh ingredients to enhance the natural flavors of the broccoli. The star of the show is, of course, the broccoli itself, but the olive oil and seasonings are essential for achieving that perfect roasted taste.

• 1 large head of broccoli (about 1 3/4 pounds or 2 small broccoli crowns) – The main event! Look for bright green florets that are firm to the touch. Fresh broccoli has a slightly earthy taste that intensifies when roasted.
• 2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – This rich oil not only adds flavor but also helps the broccoli crisp up perfectly in the oven.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – A must to bring out the natural flavor of the broccoli. Salt enhances taste and balances the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon granulated sugar – It might sound odd, but this helps caramelize the broccoli, giving it a delightful sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – For a little kick, this spice rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – If you like heat, this is a perfect addition that complements the broccoli.
• Optional toppings of choice: Parmesan, balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of lemon – These toppings can add an extra layer of flavor. Personalize it to suit your palate!

Making Roasted Broccoli

Now that you’ve gathered everything, it’s time to bring your Roasted Broccoli to life! This process is simple and rewarding; you’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can create a delicious dish. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have perfectly roasted broccoli on your table.

1. Start by placing a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 425 degrees F. This temperature is key for achieving that ideal roasted texture. You can line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy clean-up, especially if you’re a fan of hassle-free cooking.
2. Next, prepare your broccoli. Cut the stalk away from the head, which holds the florets. Lay the stem on your cutting board and carefully trim off the outer edge, cutting away about 1/4 inch. When you’re finished, you’ll have a rectangular piece of the stem’s core. Don’t throw it away; it’s delicious! Cut it into pieces about 2 to 3 inches long and 1/2-inch wide, placing them on your prepared baking sheet.
3. Now, cut the crowns into large, flat florets. If your crowns are small, aim for about 3 or 4 inches in diameter and cut them into 8 wedges. For larger crowns, cut them into 10 wedges. You want them to be roughly 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide at the top and about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Make sure they are a bit larger than what you might typically see; trust me, it works wonders!
4. Put all the cut pieces on the baking sheet along with the stems. It’s important that these pieces have enough room; crowded broccoli can steam instead of roast, so space them out adequately.
5. Drizzle the broccoli with the olive oil and sprinkle it with the salt, sugar, and pepper. This is where the magic begins! Toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated. Don’t be shy; make sure each piece gets its fair share of seasoning.
6. Spread the broccoli into an even layer on the baking sheet, ensuring that there’s plenty of room for air to circulate. If you find that space is limited, don’t hesitate to divide it between two baking sheets. Once laid out, flip the florets so that the largest cut side is facing down. This helps them caramelize beautifully.
7. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the tray in your preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully flip the pieces over using tongs. Rotate the pan 180 degrees to ensure even roasting. This is a crucial step for achieving uniform crispiness.
8. Continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. You want the broccoli to become tender and the tips of the florets to turn dark and crispy. Keep an eye on it; the cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your broccoli pieces. If you’re using two sheet pans, switch their positions halfway through to ensure even cooking.
9. Once the broccoli is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven. This is the moment to add any toppings of your choice. Whether it’s a sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of lemon, these toppings can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Enjoy your Roasted Broccoli immediately for the best experience!

Recipe Variations about Roasted Broccoli

While Roasted Broccoli is fantastic as it is, there are so many ways to switch things up and keep it interesting. Here are some variations you might want to try!

• Cheesy Roasted Broccoli: Add shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss in minced garlic with your broccoli before roasting for a savory kick.
• Asian-Inspired: Drizzle with soy sauce or sesame oil before roasting and finish with sesame seeds for an Asian twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.
• Herbed Broccoli: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary after roasting to enhance the flavor.
• Roasted Broccoli Salad: Allow the roasted broccoli to cool, then toss with mixed greens, nuts, and a vinaigrette for a delicious salad.
• Nutty Finish: Toss with toasted nuts such as almonds or pine nuts after roasting for added texture and flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Roasted Broccoli

Finding the right dishes to serve alongside Roasted Broccoli can elevate your meal to new heights. This vibrant vegetable complements a myriad of flavors, making it a superb addition to any table. Here are some delightful pairings to consider:

• Serve it with Grains: Pair your broccoli with fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf for a hearty, nutritious meal.
• Accompany with Proteins: This roasted delight goes wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. The flavors balance beautifully!
• Mix with Pasta: Toss roasted broccoli into pasta dishes for an added crunch and nutrition boost. Try it with garlic and olive oil!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge. Enjoy it cold in salads, or reheat it for quick weeknight dinners.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Roasted Broccoli is perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings, pairing nicely with roasted meats.
• Fresh Flavors: Adding a squeeze of lemon and serving with a side of tzatziki or hummus creates a refreshing contrast to the roasted flavor.
• Great for Appetizers: Serve Roasted Broccoli as part of a mezze platter alongside dips, olives, and pita bread.

FAQ

Conclusion

Roasted Broccoli is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Its crispy edges and tender florets make it a perfect side dish for any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how easy it is to create a flavorful, healthy addition to your table. You’ll be glad you did!

Roasted Broccoli

Craving something crispy and nutritious? Try this easy Roasted Broccoli recipe that brings out the best flavors of this green veggie! With just a few ingredients, you’ll be treated to a delicious side that elevates any meal. Get ready to savor the crunch and tender goodness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 head Broccoli about 1 3/4 pounds or 2 small broccoli crowns
• 2.5 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Granulated sugar
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• Pinch Red pepper flakes optional
• Toppings of choice Toppings of choice such as Parmesan, balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of lemon

Instructions

 

• Start by placing a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 425 degrees F. This temperature is key for achieving that ideal roasted texture. You can line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy clean-up, especially if you’re a fan of hassle-free cooking.
• Next, prepare your broccoli. Cut the stalk away from the head, which holds the florets. Lay the stem on your cutting board and carefully trim off the outer edge, cutting away about 1/4 inch. When you're finished, you’ll have a rectangular piece of the stem’s core. Don’t throw it away; it’s delicious! Cut it into pieces about 2 to 3 inches long and 1/2-inch wide, placing them on your prepared baking sheet.
• Now, cut the crowns into large, flat florets. If your crowns are small, aim for about 3 or 4 inches in diameter and cut them into 8 wedges. For larger crowns, cut them into 10 wedges. You want them to be roughly 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide at the top and about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Make sure they are a bit larger than what you might typically see; trust me, it works wonders!
• Put all the cut pieces on the baking sheet along with the stems. It’s important that these pieces have enough room; crowded broccoli can steam instead of roast, so space them out adequately.
• Drizzle the broccoli with the olive oil and sprinkle it with the salt, sugar, and pepper. This is where the magic begins! Toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated. Don’t be shy; make sure each piece gets its fair share of seasoning.
• Spread the broccoli into an even layer on the baking sheet, ensuring that there's plenty of room for air to circulate. If you find that space is limited, don’t hesitate to divide it between two baking sheets. Once laid out, flip the florets so that the largest cut side is facing down. This helps them caramelize beautifully.
• Now, it’s time to bake! Place the tray in your preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully flip the pieces over using tongs. Rotate the pan 180 degrees to ensure even roasting. This is a crucial step for achieving uniform crispiness.
• Continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. You want the broccoli to become tender and the tips of the florets to turn dark and crispy. Keep an eye on it; the cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your broccoli pieces. If you're using two sheet pans, switch their positions halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Once the broccoli is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven. This is the moment to add any toppings of your choice. Whether it's a sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of lemon, these toppings can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Enjoy your Roasted Broccoli immediately for the best experience!

Notes

• Tip 1: Refrigerate leftover broccoli in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
• Tip 2: Rewarm broccoli on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F.

Keyword Crispy Broccoli, Easy Vegetable Cooking, Healthy Side Dish, Roasted Broccoli Recipe

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.