Looking for a tasty and simple side dish? Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli is perfect! This easy recipe packs flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re a busy parent or a kitchen novice, you’ll love how quick it is to prepare. Join me as we dive into the bright flavors of lemon and garlic. Let’s make your veggies the star of the meal!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 large head of broccoli, trimmed and cut into bite-sized florets
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
– Zest of 1 fresh lemon
– Juice of 1 fresh lemon
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients for Enhancement
You can enhance the dish with these optional ingredients:
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a lovely cheesy flavor)
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Nutritional Information Breakdown
This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s what you get per serving:
– Calories: 120
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Dietary Fiber: 4g
– Sugar: 1g
– Fat: 8g
– Saturated Fat: 1g
Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli is a healthy side dish, rich in vitamins and minerals. It fits well in many diets and appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by gathering all ingredients. You need one large head of broccoli. Trim it and cut it into bite-sized florets. Next, measure out three tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Mince four cloves of garlic finely. Zest one fresh lemon and squeeze the juice from it. Add one teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. If you want, get ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy touch. Finally, chop some fresh parsley for garnish.
Roasting the Broccoli
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This mix will give your broccoli great flavor. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well, so the broccoli gets coated. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the broccoli in a single layer to help it roast evenly.
Perfecting Your Cooking Time
Put the baking sheet in the oven. Roast the broccoli for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the broccoli to ensure even cooking. If you love cheese, add the grated Parmesan during the last five minutes. This will melt and form a tasty crust. When the broccoli is golden and crispy, take it out of the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this dish warm!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get that perfect texture, choose fresh broccoli. Look for tight florets and bright green color. Cut the broccoli into even pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate. Roasting at 400°F (200°C) gives a nice crispy edge. Stir the broccoli halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning and crispiness all around.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
For more flavor, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic has a stronger taste than dried. Adding lemon zest boosts the taste too. The zest gives a bright, fresh note. You can adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice level. If you like it mild, use less. For more kick, add extra. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds richness. It melts into a tasty layer on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roasted broccoli warm on a colorful platter. A drizzle of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Scatter some chopped parsley for a pretty look. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. This dish works well as a side for any main course. You can also mix it into pasta for a quick lunch.
Variations
Adding Different Vegetables
You can mix in other veggies with your broccoli. Cauliflower and Brussels sprouts work great. They have a nice crunch and soak up the lemon and garlic flavor. Slice carrots or bell peppers for some color and sweetness. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
Alternative Seasonings
Feel free to get creative with spices. Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky kick. Italian herbs like oregano or thyme can also add depth. For a spicy twist, consider cayenne pepper. Use what you love to make this dish your own.
Dairy-Free Options
If you want to skip dairy, leave out the Parmesan cheese. You can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. It adds a nice nutty taste and is great for plant-based diets. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After cooking, let the Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli cool down. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the broccoli fresh and tasty. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to seal it well.
Freezing for Later Use
You can freeze leftover roasted broccoli. Cool it completely before freezing. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Try to push out as much air as you can. The broccoli will stay good for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until it is warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps to avoid sogginess. Enjoy your tasty dish again with ease!
FAQs
How do I know when the broccoli is done?
You can tell when broccoli is done by its color and texture. It should be bright green and slightly crispy. If you poke it with a fork, it should pierce easily but still have a little bite. Roasting for 20-25 minutes usually gives the best result. If it starts to brown too much, pull it out.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Frozen broccoli has more water, so less oil may help. Spread it evenly on the baking sheet and follow the same roasting steps. Cooking times may be slightly longer, so check for doneness.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli?
Lemon garlic roasted broccoli pairs well with many dishes. Here are some ideas:
– Grilled chicken or fish
– Quinoa or rice
– Pasta with olive oil and garlic
– Tofu or tempeh for a vegan option
– A fresh green salad
These options bring balance to your meal and enhance the bright flavors of the broccoli.
Can I add more flavor to the broccoli?
Absolutely! You can add more herbs like thyme or rosemary. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of nuts can also enhance the taste. Feel free to play around with spices to suit your palate.
How do I store leftover roasted broccoli?
Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it again.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli ahead of time. You can chop and season it a few hours before roasting. Just keep it in the fridge until you are ready to roast. This makes for a quick and easy side dish.
What is the nutritional value of this dish?
Lemon garlic roasted broccoli is low in calories and high in vitamins. It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Adding olive oil and Parmesan will increase the healthy fats and protein.
This blog post covers everything you need to make delicious Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli. We discussed required and optional ingredients, along with their nutrition. I walked you through step-by-step instructions, tips for texture and flavor, and variations to try. I also included storage info and answered common questions.
Roasted broccoli can be simple but tasty. Try this recipe to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy the healthy benefits of broccoli while having fun in the kitchen.
