Roasted broccoli (especially with garlic) is probably my all-time favorite way to make broccoli. However, this Baked Broccoli Casserole, this Garlic Roasted Broccoli Rice and these Roasted Broccoli Tots are also to-die-for!
I’m a big fan of roasting veggies, especially in the fall. The combination of heat and proper surface area on the pan can turn any vegetable into a savory side dish in no time. At a high heat, the sugars in the vegetable caramelize. When spread out over the pan in an even layer, the broccoli is able to brown properly.
This combination makes for a warm, tasty crowd-pleaser. I mean, garlic always helps too.
The measurements for this recipe are really more of a guideline. You can add more or less olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt or pepper. Occasionally I also like to add some red pepper flakes about halfway through the roasting process for more heat.
Now, this recipe is very easy to put together. While preheating the oven to 400 degrees, I cut the broccoli into bite-size florets and rinse them off. Make sure to dry the florets thoroughly so that they roast better in the oven. Then, in a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread out evenly in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
Roast for about 15 minutes until crispy and tender, until the edges begin to brown. About halfway through, flip the broccoli and add the red pepper flakes, if using. After it is done roasting, drizzle the lemon juice over the broccoli and serve.
Besides tasting delicious paired with garlic in this recipe, broccoli – you may have heard – is super. A super food. It’s got Vitamin C, it helps your body fight cancer, it helps with bone health, and it boosts your immune system. All from one vegetable. There isn’t much it doesn’t do.
Oh yes, I was one of those kids who would rather sit for an hour at the dinner table rather than finish my broccoli. But no more. I’m not sure I will be making broccoli any other way for awhile. Be forewarned that this broccoli makes an addictive, delectable side dish.
