Looking to elevate your vegetable game? Dive into the vibrant world of "Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli Salad"—a dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor in every bite! This quick and easy recipe transforms humble broccoli into a crispy, zesty delight that will have your taste buds dancing. With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a mouthwatering salad that’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy roasting.
- Cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size to promote even cooking. Discard the thick stem or save for another recipe.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a fragrant marinade.
- Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the garlic-olive oil mixture.
- Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, turning the broccoli halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- Remove the broccoli from the oven when the edges are crispy and slightly charred, and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot roasted broccoli, allowing the citrus to enhance the flavors.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the warm broccoli, letting the residual heat slightly melt the cheese.
- Transfer the roasted broccoli to a serving dish and serve immediately while hot and crispy. Can be enjoyed as a side dish or a warm salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Broccoli: Look for vibrant green florets that are firm and tightly packed. Avoid any yellowing or wilting for the best flavor and texture.
- Dry Thoroughly: After washing the broccoli, make sure to dry it completely. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing that desired crispy texture.
- Uniform Cuts: Cut the broccoli into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. If some pieces are larger, they may not roast as quickly, resulting in uneven doneness.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can trap steam and lead to soggy veggies instead of crispy perfection.
- Adjust Roasting Time: Keep an eye on your broccoli as it roasts. Ovens can vary, so check for that perfect golden-brown color and tender-crisp texture around the 15-minute mark.
- Zest for Extra Flavor: For an added citrus punch, consider grating a bit of lemon zest over the broccoli before serving. It enhances the lemony flavor and adds a fragrant aroma.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s still hot and crispy. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
