Easy Roasted Broccoli Recipe

Name: Easy Roasted Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 14 ounces broccoli; 1 tablespoon olive oil; salt and ground black pepper to taste

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Roasted Broccoli Recipe

This simple roasted broccoli recipe yields a delicious, crispy, and tender side dish. It's perfect for a healthy meal with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

14 ounces broccoli
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Follow these easy steps for perfect roasted broccoli every time:

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
Wash and cut the broccoli florets from the stalk. Peel the stalk and slice it into 1/4-inch slices.
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets and sliced stalk pieces with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the broccoli mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy your roasted broccoli!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Information (per serving)	Amount
Calories	63
Total Fat	4g (5% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	1g (3% Daily Value)
Sodium	71mg (3% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	7g (2% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	3g (9% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	3g (6% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	87mg (97% Daily Value)
Calcium	46mg (4% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (4% Daily Value)
Potassium	310mg (7% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Easy Roasted Broccoli Recipe

By: Karen Atlincoln

History and Origin

Roasted broccoli is a relatively modern way to enjoy this nutrient-packed vegetable. While broccoli has been a staple in Mediterranean and European diets for centuries, roasting it as a method of cooking only gained widespread popularity in the late 20th century, alongside the rise of roasting as a preferred cooking technique. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of broccoli, transforming it from a simple side dish to a star of the table. This technique gained traction particularly in health-conscious cooking, as it allows for the preservation of broccolis vitamins and antioxidants better than boiling or steaming.

Regional Variations

While roasting broccoli is a universal method, there are some regional variations in how its seasoned or served. In Italy, roasted broccoli is often paired with garlic, olive oil, and a dash of red pepper flakes, highlighting the Mediterranean flavor profile. In the United States, Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is a common addition, adding richness or acidity to balance the savory flavor. In the Middle East, sumac or za'atar might be used to season the broccoli, lending it a tangy and aromatic depth. Whether served as a side dish, in a salad, or with grains like quinoa, roasted broccoli can easily adapt to different cuisines.

Distinguishing Features

Compared to similar vegetable preparations like steamed or boiled broccoli, roasted broccoli stands out for its deeper, caramelized flavor and appealing texture. Roasting broccoli at a high temperature allows the natural sugars in the vegetable to brown, adding a savory sweetness that is not achievable with other cooking methods. Additionally, roasting helps to retain more of the vegetables nutritional content, especially vitamins A and C, which can be lost during prolonged cooking methods like boiling. Another key difference is that roasting typically requires minimal oil and seasoning, letting the natural flavors shine through, whereas steaming or boiling might require additional flavorings.

Where is it Usually Served?

Roasted broccoli is a popular side dish in both casual and upscale restaurants, particularly in the United States and Europe. It is often served as an accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or pasta dishes. Many health-conscious restaurants serve it as a vegan or vegetarian option, frequently paired with other roasted vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts. It's also common at family dinners, meal-prep sessions, or even at holiday tables, as its both simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Given its popularity as a nutritious and easy-to-make side dish, roasted broccoli is increasingly becoming a staple in various home kitchens around the world.

Interesting Facts

Broccoli is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which also includes cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. These vegetables are known for their health benefits, including high levels of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
The name broccoli comes from the Latin word "bracchium," meaning arm or branch, referring to the vegetable's tree-like structure.
Broccoli was first cultivated in ancient Rome and was brought to the United States in the 18th century by Italian immigrants.
Roasted broccoli has become a go-to dish for those following low-carb, keto, and plant-based diets due to its nutritional profile and versatility.
The method of roasting broccoli, particularly at high temperatures, has been credited with enhancing the bioavailability of certain antioxidants in the vegetable, including sulforaphane, which is thought to have anti-cancer properties.

FAQ about Easy Roasted Broccoli Recipe

While fresh broccoli works best for roasting, you can use frozen broccoli. However, it may release more moisture during roasting, which could affect the crispiness. It's advisable to thaw and drain it well before roasting.

Roasted broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly.

Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a squeeze of lemon juice. Many users also enjoy adding Parmesan cheese or balsamic vinegar after roasting for extra flavor.

If your broccoli is burning but not tender, you may need to lower the temperature of your oven slightly or check for uneven heat distribution. Try roasting at 375°F (190°C) or covering the broccoli with foil during the first few minutes to avoid over-browning.

While cutting the stalks into slices is recommended for even cooking, you can leave the stalks whole or skip them entirely if you prefer just the florets. If you do keep the stalks, peeling them will help remove the tougher outer layer.

For extra crispiness, ensure that the broccoli is well coated in oil and spaced out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan can cause the broccoli to steam instead of roast. Also, using high heat (around 400°F or 200°C) is key for getting a crispy texture.

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil, sesame oil, or even flavored oils like garlic-infused olive oil for a different taste. Each oil has its own smoking point, so be mindful of that when roasting at high temperatures.

Yes, you can substitute other vegetables like cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or even asparagus for a similar roasted effect. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable you're using.

To reheat roasted broccoli, place it back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat to help restore some crispiness.

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. The broccoli will still be delicious with just the olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Comments

Rock_lobster

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Easy Roasted Broccoli Haiku: "No need to use bowl. Just toss with oil on pan. Mmmm ... add parmesan!" This couldn't have been easier or more yummy! I bought one of those 12 oz. bags of broccoli florets from the produce department so I didn't have to cut anything - just dumped on the sheet, tossed w/ the oil (1 TB was plenty) and s&p, and 18 min. at 400 deg. was just about perfect! Adding a sprinkle of parmesan at the table was magic, but on its own, just as wonderful and simple of a side dish. I normally steam my broccoli in the microwave w/ butter, lemon juice, s&p, but this was absolutely delicious and something that I'm sure I'll do again and again!

Knightcraft

02/23/2015 07:05:27 AM

Added a little garlic salt and finished with Parmesan cheese. Fabulous. Not sure why others would double the cooking time then give a one star review because it was burned....

France Cevallos

12/02/2014 05:03:04 PM

Very tasty basic recipe. Much better than steaming or boiling your broccoli! Easily customizable to your family's preferences by using different seasonings. The only thing I suggest is using more oil since 1 tbsp wasn't nearly enough. The pan dried out quickly. This would be excellent using flavored olive oils.

kellieann

01/22/2015 10:15:58 AM

Love this recipe. I add garlic powder and I personally prefer my broccoli a little more done, so I typically roast it for closer to 30 minutes. It's also great with sesame oil.

N2deewind

01/12/2015 10:34:38 PM

Next best vegetable ever. Simple. Flavorful. Roast it til it is visibly browning about the edges, changes the flavor like magic. The best vegetable ever is Brussels sprouts done the same way. You can add sliced or crushed garlic, you can use infused oils, add peppers, bacon or ham, Parmesan after taking out of oven, or just keep it simple. Healthy comfort food.

sherryhubb

02/23/2015 12:00:16 PM

Our favorite way to cook broccoli. To the broccoli florets and olive oil, we add about a tablespoon of minced garlic and use Montreal Steak Seasoning rather than salt and pepper. I toss all in a plastic bag, give it a good shake, then spread it over the baking sheet prior to baking. I'm going to try the parmesan cheese addition next time I cook this. I just shake olive oil into the plastic bag, but feel I use at least double the amount listed so that it gets over all the florets.

Christopher Martin

11/07/2019 03:40:58 PM

This recipe = legendary.

nicolekrystyn

08/19/2023 07:37:24 PM

I usually just buy pre-cut broccoli florets but whole broccoli was on sale this weekend so I decided to try this. Very quick and easy to prep and the entire pan was gone after dinner! I'll definitely be buying more whole broccoli and preparing it this way from now on. The timing and temperature was perfect in my oven, but when I do smaller batches of broccoli in my air fryer I only need 6-8 minutes.

Ellen Little

11/04/2019 07:11:03 PM

I will make this again, but I modified it a little bit. I added a bit less oil (maybe 1/3 less), and tented it with foil after about 8 minutes, because it was starting to burn a bit. I massaged the broccoli with the oil, salt and pepper for a minute or so before putting it in the oven, which I believe helps the broccoli stay a bit more tender. I also ended up lowering the heat a bit after covering with foil. It was great, but just a bit too browned on the top. I think next time I will start at 350 F, maybe put the foil on top sooner (5-6 minutes), and then finish roasting for 15 minutes.

SpeedyMilk3002

12/23/2024 07:08:15 PM

Used broccoline and just peeled the stalks before roasting. Topped with some pako mixed with melted butter, garlic and onion power and browned under the broiler a few minutes before serving with lemon wedges.

MANDT2

12/17/2020 03:11:46 AM

Delicious and very easy. 18 minutes in the oven was perfect. I used Penzey's Florida Seasoning. It has the recommended seasonings, plus orange zest. It worked very well. And, the parmesan cheese was the perfect topping.

SwiftPrawn8697

05/10/2025 10:52:35 PM

So simple, but delicious! Followed the recipe almost exactly as written, but did not include the stalks. The stalks cause me severe digestive tract issues

Dorothy Adams

03/23/2025 09:17:35 PM

Can’t wait to make it again next week.

Brian

03/03/2025 12:16:01 AM

Delicious. Easy to make.

Camile Fisher

02/18/2025 01:37:40 AM

Added French Onion Soup seasoning. It is quickly becoming a regular in our house!!

CheekyGum5731

02/06/2025 06:13:17 PM

Added garlic powder. Will definitely make again.

Joyce Rowland

02/05/2025 11:20:25 PM

Easy to cook!

Emma Nelson

02/05/2025 10:09:56 PM

Such a cozy and comforting meal.

Catherine

10/24/2024 02:46:07 AM

Face it, broccoli is boring. This recipe is acceptable, but I don't really think anyone can actually "fix" broccoli. Next time I will try broccoli soup.

GSD

07/12/2024 01:16:12 AM

Absolutely fabulous and so simple. The roast came out perfect and I did no changes. I will be making this a lot Thank you

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

View Recipe

Pancetta and Romano Potato Croquettes Recipe

audio version

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Easy Roasted Broccoli Recipe