Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli (Printer-Friendly)

Crisp-tender broccoli roasted with garlic and lemon zest offers a bright, flavorful side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb fresh broccoli florets

→ Aromatics

02 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Oils & Seasonings

03 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Finishing

06 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
07 - Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (omit to keep vegan)

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until broccoli is evenly coated.
03 - Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Roast for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until broccoli is tender with lightly browned edges.
05 - Remove broccoli from oven, immediately drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle lemon zest, and toss gently to combine.
06 - If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The edges get crispy and caramelized while the stems stay tender—it's the textural contrast that makes it feel like real cooking.
  • Takes barely longer than boiling water, but tastes like you've been thinking about dinner all day.
  • Works as a weeknight side or guests actually get excited to eat the vegetables.
02 -
  • The halfway flip is not optional; it ensures even browning and keeps the bottom from burning while the top stays pale.
  • Lemon juice added to hot vegetables matters—the heat opens up the flavor in a way cold juice doesn't, and it won't make the broccoli soggy if you toss quickly.
03 -
  • Pat your broccoli florets dry with a paper towel before tossing with oil—any moisture will steam them instead of letting them roast crispy.
  • Use a lighter hand when salting if your Parmesan is going on top; the cheese brings its own saltiness to the party.
Go Back