Roasted Broccoli with Lemon Recipe
Introduction
Roasted Broccoli with Lemon is a simple, flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and slight char of the broccoli. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 broccoli heads (with long stems)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Pink Himalayan sea salt or coarse sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 lemon, squeezed over broccoli after roasting
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Spread the broccoli out in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting and charring.
- Step 4: Roast the broccoli in the oven for 15-25 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Roast about 15 minutes for crisp-tender broccoli with lightly browned tops, or up to 25 minutes for a deeper char and bolder flavor.
- Step 5: Remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli right after roasting.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use regular sea salt if Pink Himalayan salt isn’t available; the flavor will be just as delicious.
Storage
Store leftover roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a hot skillet to maintain some crispness. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the texture pleasant.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Fresh broccoli is best for roasting as it retains its texture and flavor better. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
What if I don’t have lemon on hand?
You can substitute lemon juice with a splash of vinegar, such as white wine or apple cider vinegar, to add brightness, though the flavor will be different.
PrintRoasted Broccoli with Lemon Recipe
This Roasted Broccoli with Lemon recipe offers a simple, flavorful way to enjoy fresh broccoli. Roasting brings out a delightful char and depth of flavor, enhanced by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It’s a healthy, easy-to-make side dish perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-25 minutes
- Total Time: 25-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 broccoli heads (with a long stem)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Pink Himalayan sea salt or coarse sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Finish
- 1/2 lemon, freshly squeezed after roasting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, which is optional but recommended.
- Toss the broccoli. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, Pink Himalayan or coarse sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well until the broccoli is evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Spread it out. Arrange the broccoli in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. This helps the broccoli roast and char evenly.
- Roast to perfection. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the broccoli for 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Roast for about 15 minutes for crisp-tender broccoli with lightly browned tops, or up to 25 minutes for a deeper char and bolder flavor. Adjust roasting time between 20 to 25 minutes as desired.
- Finish with lemon. Once roasted to your liking, remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, acidic finish. Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust roasting time based on how tender or charred you want your broccoli.
- Using aluminum foil or parchment paper helps with easier cleanup but can be omitted if desired.
- Freshly ground black pepper enhances the overall flavor more than pre-ground.
- The lemon juice should be added only after roasting to preserve its fresh brightness.
Keywords: roasted broccoli, lemon broccoli, healthy side dish, baked vegetables, easy broccoli recipe, oven roasted broccoli
