A simple tray of Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli turns everyday broccoli into a bright, crunchy side. The florets roast until edges char and crisp. Lemon wakes the flavor. Garlic adds warm, savory notes. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds nutty saltiness if you like. This recipe is fast, healthy, and full of texture — perfect for weeknights or a holiday plate.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
Approximate per serving (makes 4 servings; Parmesan not included)
- Calories per serving: 135 kcal
- Protein: 3.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 7.5 g
- Fat: 10.8 g
- Fiber: 3.0 g
- Sugar: 1.9 g
- Sodium: 220 mg (varies with added salt and Parmesan)
Why Make This Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli
This dish is fast and fills a craving for something crunchy and fresh. Roasting caramelizes the broccoli edges and creates deep, toasty flavors. Lemon brightens the palate and cuts the oil’s richness. Garlic gives warmth and aroma. It’s a healthy side that looks green and glossy on the plate. The texture is crisp-tender with browned, slightly charred tips that smell garlicky and lemony.
How to Make Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli
Roasting at high heat makes the florets crisp on the outside and tender inside. Use a roomy pan so the broccoli isn’t crowded. Toss well so oil and lemon coat each piece. Watch the oven during the last few minutes to get the level of char you like.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or leave it unlined for extra browning. Trim any large stems from the broccoli and cut into even florets so they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure each floret is lightly coated. Let it sit 1–2 minutes so the lemon and garlic cling to the surface.
Step 3: Cooking
Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet with the cut sides down if possible. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through if needed, until the broccoli is crispy and tender and the tips are browned and slightly charred.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally top with grated Parmesan cheese and an extra squeeze of lemon. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
How to Serve Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli
Serve this broccoli warm as a side to grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It pairs well with rice bowls and pasta. For a cozy fall plate, serve alongside roasted root vegetables or a dish like caramelized maple Dijon roasted apples and carrots. Garnish with extra lemon zest or a shower of chopped toasted almonds for crunch.
How to Store Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli
- Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, place in an airtight container, and refrigerate up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a hot oven or skillet to bring back some crispness.
- Freezer: Not ideal for texture, but you can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat; expect softer florets.
- Reheating tip: Reheat at 400°F (205°C) on a baking sheet for 5–8 minutes or sauté quickly in a hot skillet with a splash of oil to restore edges.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli
- Dry well: Make sure florets are mostly dry before tossing with oil. Excess water steams instead of roasting.
- Space them out: Crowding causes steaming. Use two sheets if needed.
- Cut evenly: Uniform pieces cook at the same rate.
- High heat: 425°F (220°C) gives the best browning and crispness.
- Add garlic late: If you’re worried about garlic burning, toss minced garlic halfway through roasting or use sliced garlic tucked under florets.
- Finish fresh: Add lemon juice after roasting for brighter flavor.
- Parmesan caution: Sprinkle Parmesan right after baking so it melts slightly without burning.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil before roasting.
- Nutty crunch: Toss with toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds after roasting.
- Balsamic glaze: Drizzle aged balsamic or balsamic reduction just before serving.
- Herb-forward: Add chopped parsley, basil, or dill after roasting.
- Cheesy: Toss with grated Pecorino Romano or a mix of Parmesan and lemon zest.
- Asian twist: Swap lemon for a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds after roasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I roast frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, but texture will be softer. Thaw and pat dry, then roast at 425°F (220°C). Expect a longer cook time and less crispness. Spreading on a hot sheet and using extra oil helps.
Q: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
A: Mince garlic finely and toss with the broccoli just before roasting. You can also add garlic halfway through cooking or use whole smashed cloves that brown slower.
Q: Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
A: Yes. Broccoli is low in carbs and high in fiber. The recipe uses olive oil and minimal carbs, making it suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
Q: Can I make this without oil?
A: You can, but oil helps with crisping and flavor. Try a light spray of oil, or roast with a drizzle of lemon juice and a nonstick sheet, but expect less browning.
Q: How do I get extra-crispy edges?
A: Use a hot oven (425°F/220°C), don’t crowd the pan, and place florets cut-side down. A hot baking sheet helps; preheat the sheet in the oven for a few minutes before placing the broccoli.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the sheet pan?
A: Yes, but choose vegetables with similar cook times (e.g., thinly sliced carrots or cauliflower florets). Denser vegetables may need a head start before adding broccoli.
Q: Is Parmesan necessary?
A: No. Parmesan is optional. It adds a salty, nutty finish. For a vegan option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Conclusion
Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli is an easy, bright side that adds crunch and flavor to any meal. The combination of charred edges, zesty lemon, and garlicky aroma makes this dish satisfying and versatile. For inspiration from another classic take on roasted broccoli, see crispy broccoli with lemon and garlic – smitten kitchen. Give this recipe a try — it’s fast, forgiving, and sure to become a regular on your table.
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Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright and crunchy side dish, this Crispy Roasted Lemon Garlic Broccoli turns everyday broccoli into a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or leave it unlined for extra browning. Trim any large stems from the broccoli and cut into even florets so they cook uniformly.
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure each floret is lightly coated. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
- Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet with the cut sides down if possible. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the broccoli is crispy and tender and the tips are browned and charred.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot, optionally topping with grated Parmesan cheese and an extra squeeze of lemon.
Notes
For extra crispy edges, ensure broccoli is dry before tossing with oil and avoid crowding the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 1.9g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10.8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7.5g
- Fiber: 3.0g
- Protein: 3.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
