Roasting vegetables is the best way to cook them, and don’t even try to change my mind. You can steam them, you can boil them, you can sauté them… but roasting brings out so much more flavor that you don’t get any other way since it brings out their natural sugars and caramelizes the veggies. And I love how EASY it is to roast vegetables- just throw them on a sheet pan, add some spices and oil, and bake! It’s super hands-off. Broccoli is no exception to the rule. Roasting broccoli is absolutely delicious, ESPECIALLY when it’s roasted with four cloves of garlic cut into thin slices, olive oil and lemon zest, plenty of salt and pepper, and drizzled with fresh-squeezed lemon juice after it comes out of the oven. The broccoli comes out perfectly browned and tender and absorbs the lemon flavor perfectly. The garlic gets toasty and a bit crunchy and adds a wonderful savory flavor. You’re going to love this easy vegetable side dish!
How to make roasted broccoli with garlic and lemon
Recommended Equipment:
I always recommend a rimmed, aluminum nordicware half baker’s sheet when roasting almost anything. They are inexpensive, heat up perfectly, and things just don’t seem to stick to them as much as other pans. I also recommend a microplane zester so you can zest the lemon right over the sheet pan.
Tips for success:
Garlic has a tendency to burn at high temperatures. You want it to get toasted and golden brown, but don’t let it burn, which can impart a bitter taste. To avoid burning, I recommend tossing the veggies at least once while it bakes. Also, keep an eye on it to make sure it’s not cooking too fast. Use plenty of salt and pepper to season the broccoli, as with most roasted vegetables, but also remember: you can add more after it’s done cooking! Eat a piece after squeezing the lemon juice and add more salt if necessary.
Try serving this roasted broccoli with…
Salisbury Steak Baked Haddock Spinach and White Bean Patties Poached Salmon Pan-Fried Sea Bass
Other Roasted Vegetable Recipes:
Roasted Cauliflower with Pine Nuts and Raisins Herb Roasted Vegetables with Balsamic Reduction Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Mexican Roasted Zucchini
And be sure to check out out all my other easy side recipes! Did you make this Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon? Please comment below and Rate this Recipe!