Roasted Garlic Broccoli

Have you ever roasted broccoli before? It's a game-changer for those who don't normally like broccoli. The roasting process makes the broccoli nutty and delicious. Plus you get these crispy, browned edges that are just so so good. Paired with garlic, it makes a perfect side dish.

If you have been here for a while, you know that I am a huge fan of roasted vegetables. There are so many people out there who think they aren't veggie fans and it is simply because they haven't been preparing them correctly. Soggy and flavorless veggies have no place here. I want deliciously browned, crispy vegetables that are full of flavor.  Roasting does just that. 

So whether you start by roasting broccoli or try some roasted asparagus or green beans at your next meal, it's definitely time to give roasted vegetables a chance. 

Back to this broccoli recipe, depending on what you are serving, there are so many ways to customize the flavor in this dish. I like to add some fresh lemon juice and Parmesan just before serving to kick things up a notch. Red pepper flakes are also a great addition if you like things a bit spicy.

How to Roast Broccoli

Here is what you need to do to make some delicious broccoli in the oven. 

• Always start by preheating the oven to 425 degrees. The oven needs to be nice and hot when the broccoli starts cooking. 
• Toss the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add any additional seasoning like red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, dried basil, or lemon pepper.  Make sure the florets are evenly coated. 
• Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. Do not crowd the broccoli.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp with nicely browned edges. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the florets. 

Tips for the Best Broccoli

Keep these tips in mind next time you are preparing this recipe.

• Choose fresh broccoli florets whenever possible. Although you can roast frozen vegetables, they won't turn out quite as good as fresh. Here are some great tips for roasting frozen vegetables.
• Always dry the broccoli well after washing. Leaving water in the broccoli can cause it to steam instead of roast. It also won't get as crispy. 
• Cut the broccoli into florets that are the same size. It doesn't really matter how big the florets are, just that they are similar in size so they cook in the same amount of time. Larger florets may take slightly longer to cook.
• Make sure to place the broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet and do not crowd the pan. When the pan is crowded, the vegetables will steam instead of roast.  Vegetables need space on the baking sheet to roast and brown. 
• For easy cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper. This also prevents sticking.

Recipe Ideas

There are so many different ways to customize this roasted broccoli dish and add new flavors and spices. Here are some to consider.

• Finish the dish with fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add lots of black pepper for even more flavor.
• Take this dish in an Asian direction by tossing the florets with sesame oil and soy sauce. 
• Toss the broccoli with balsamic vinegar before roasting to add some sweetness and tang. Or drizzle some balsamic glaze on top before serving.
• Add some crunch by tossing the roasted broccoli with some sliced almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds. 
• Top the roasted broccoli with some homemade pesto or honey mustard.
• Add some sliced red onions or shallots to the baking sheet with the broccoli. 
• Replace half of the broccoli with cauliflower to add some color and another flavor. 

Serving Ideas

This is one of those simple side dishes that work with all types of main dishes. Here are some ways we like to serve roasted broccoli.

• With roasted meats: Cook everything in the oven at the same time by serving this with some roasted balsamic chicken, roasted pork, or flank steak.
• With grains: Turn this into a delicious grain bowl by pairing it with cooked brown rice, quinoa, or farro. Add some roasted chickpeas or crispy tofu.
• With seafood: Pair this with Dijon Baked Salmon or Crispy Baked Fish.
• With burgers: Instead of fries, make roasted broccoli the side dish for some delicious Salmon Burgers or Turkey Burgers.