Broccoli – it’s that humble green veggie that so often gets overshadowed by its flashier counterparts. Yet, when roasted to crispy perfection with garlic and Parmesan, it transforms into something magical. It’s like the broccoli decided to put on its best dress and hit the culinary runway!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Break a head of broccoli into evenly sized florets and spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle the broccoli florets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 15 to 22 minutes, or until the edges of the florets are browned and crisp.
- If desired, roast lemon halves alongside the broccoli and squeeze the juice over the florets after they come out of the oven.
- Finish by sprinkling red pepper flakes over the roasted broccoli before serving it warm.
Ingredients
- 1 head of broccoli, broken into evenly sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh lemon juice, for serving
Nutritional Values
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 3g
Vitamin D: N/A
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 1mg
Potassium: 300mg
FAQ
- How do I ensure my roasted broccoli is crispy and not soggy?
- To achieve crispy broccoli, make sure to dry the florets thoroughly after washing. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Spread the florets in a single layer with enough space between them.
- What are some serving suggestions for roasted broccoli?
- Roasted broccoli can be enhanced with various toppings and seasonings. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice and red pepper flakes, or toss it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You could also drizzle it with sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds, or top with grated Parmesan and minced garlic in the final minutes of roasting.
- Can I roast the broccoli stalks as well?
- Yes, don’t discard the stalks! You can chop and roast them along with the florets. Alternatively, use them in other dishes like broccoli soup or pulse them into broccoli rice to minimize waste.
- What oven temperature is best for roasting broccoli?
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting. This temperature helps the broccoli to brown and crisp around the edges while remaining tender inside.
- Can roasted broccoli be part of a main meal?
- Absolutely! Roasted broccoli can be added to pasta dishes or grain bowls. Pair it with grains like quinoa or farro, and add a protein such as roasted chickpeas or baked tofu for a complete meal.
Tips
- Ensure your broccoli is thoroughly dried after washing, as excess moisture can prevent it from becoming brown and crispy in the oven.
- Salt generously before roasting and adjust the seasoning after cooking to avoid bland broccoli.
- To ensure even cooking, cut your broccoli florets to a similar size and avoid overcrowding them on the baking sheet.
- Don’t discard the broccoli stalks; roast them with the florets, use them in soup, or pulse them into broccoli rice to minimize waste.
Equipment
- Rimmed Baking Sheet (preferably nonstick, like the ones from USA Pan Bakeware)
- Parchment Paper
