Do you have any favorite broccoli recipes? I love it in just about anything – broccoli salad, frittatas, pasta, etc. – but my favorite way to eat broccoli might be the simplest: roasted!
Roasted broccoli is so easy to make, and the florets come out of the oven deliciously golden brown, crisp, and tender. I have a hard time not eating them all straight off the sheet pan, but they’re also a fantastic addition to all sorts of recipes and a yummy side dish on their own.
If you love roasted broccoli as much as I do, read on to find my foolproof method for how to roast it, along with a slew of serving suggestions to make it flavorful, filling, and absolutely irresistible. Happy roasting!
Yes! Baked broccoli is super healthy and full of fiber, vitamin C, and even protein.
How to Roast Broccoli
Making perfect roasted broccoli couldn’t be easier! Here’s what you need to do:
- First, preheat the oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- While the oven warms up, break a head of broccoli into evenly sized florets. Spread them on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer them to the hot oven and bake for 15 to 22 minutes, until the florets are browned and crisp around the edges.
That’s it! You can also roast lemon halves along with the broccoli. Right when they come out of the oven, squeeze the roasted lemon juice over the florets. Then, finish them with a big sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Easy Roasted Broccoli Recipe Tips
- Wash AND dry your veggies. After you wash your head of broccoli, make sure to dry it off before you toss it with the oil. A little moisture is ok, but if it’s too wet when it goes in the oven, it won’t get brown and crisp.
- Don’t be afraid of the salt. No one loves bland broccoli, so salt yours generously. I sprinkle mine with sea salt before roasting and then add more, to taste, after it comes out of the oven.
- Cut your florets to a similar size. Similar-sized pieces will cook at a similar rate, so make sure your florets are all about the same size. You don’t want little ones to burn before larger ones become tender!
- Don’t let things get too crowded! If the florets are too close together on the sheet pan, they will steam in the oven, and they won’t get brown and crisp. Make sure to spread your florets in an even layer with a little space between each one.
- Don’t toss the stalk! Chop it and roast it right along with the florets, save it to make soup, or pulse it into broccoli rice. Waste not, want not!
Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe
FAQ
Is broccoli healthier steamed or baked?
Is it healthy to eat roasted broccoli?
Does broccoli lose its nutrients when roasted?
What is the healthiest way to eat broccoli?
Is roasting Broccoli healthy?
Broccoli on its own is very healthy for you. It’s packed full of fiber, nutrients vitamins and a surprisingly fair amount of protein, too. In case you were wondering, roasting broccoli won’t totally destroy those nutrients, either.
Is broccoli healthy?
Broccoli is healthy. High intakes(several serving per week) of cruciferous vegetables have been associated with a lower risk for cancer. For example, studies have found that women with a high intake of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli have a decreased risk of breast cancer. Although not all of the mechanisms are understood, there are several compounds in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables that likely work together. Broccoli may also help normalize blood sugar and support cardiovascular health. One-half cup of chopped broccoli florets and stalks contain approximately 3 grams of fiber. Soluble fiber supports normal blood sugar and can also lower serum LDL cholesterol. Broccoli may help in the prevention or slowing of age-related macular degeneration. It is a rich source of lutein, which is concentrated in the central part of the retina. Lutein acts to protect this part of the eye from damage. Be sure not to overcook your broccoli and consume a mix of both cooked and raw. To dispel gas, add lemon to your broccoli dish(this will discolor broccoli over time) or try Beano before meal. Also effective in reducing gas and bloating is eating one-half teaspoon of fennel seeds (toasted, raw, or candied) after a meal.
Can you eat roasted Broccoli?
Roasted broccoli can be a delicious, hearty component in main dishes. Here are a few recipes to prove it: For a healthier take on grilled cheese, stuff it with broccoli and other roasted vegetables. Likewise, you can lighten up your pasta with spinach, roasted broccoli and veggies.
Is roasted Broccoli a healthy side dish?
Roasted broccoli is a healthy side dish with major crowd appeal. Broccoli contains a lot of good-for-you fiber, vitamin C, and a surprising amount of protein, too. Who knew? If you’ve been in a rut with side dishes lately, or you’re tired of steamed broccoli, you’re going to love this simple side.