Garlic Lemon Roasted Broccoli Recipe

Name: Roasted Broccoli with Lemon and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 Head Broccoli; 1 Lemon; 2 Cloves Garlic (chopped); 1 1/2 Tablespoons Olive Oil; 1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated)

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Garlic lemon roasted broccoli is a simple side dish recipe that is a delicious way to combine fresh flavors and healthy ingredients into a satisfying and healthy side dish. The blend of roasted garlic and zesty lemon adds a refreshing burst of flavor to the broccoli florets.

a picture of lemon and broccoli on a platter with melted cheese

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Broccoli is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in so many ways. My favorite way is to roast broccoli with garlic and lemon. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes, you can have a healthy and flavorful roasted broccoli side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Why you will love garlic roasted broccoli

This delicious side dish recipe is versatile! Serve it as a standalone side dish or toss it into salad or pasta.
It’s a easy to prepare with fresh and simple ingredients.
Roasted broccoli and lemon is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store leftovers for later use.

a picture of ingredients to make this recipe: broccoli, olive oil, parmesan cheese, lemon, olive oil

Here is what you will need

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This is a brief summary of the ingredients needed to make this lemon garlic broccoli recipe and a convenient shopping list from my Instacart affiliate link. For a printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions, scroll down to the recipe card section.

Ingredients

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This is an overview of the ingredients and steps to make this lemon garlic broccoli recipe; scroll down for a printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions.

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How to make this lemon garlic broccoli recipe

Prepare: Cut the broccoli crowns into florets that are similar in size. Squeeze the juice of half of a lemon and cut the other half into slices. Chop the garlic.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees f and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

step 1: a picture of the broccoli on a tray with lemon slices

STEP 1: Toss the broccoli in olive oil in a large bowl and arrange it in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet with the lemon slices; drizzle with lemon juice and roast for 10 minutes.

STEP 2: Remove the pan from the oven and add the chopped garlic and place the pan back into the oven; roast for 5 to 10 minutes longer until the broccoli is fork tender.

step 2 broccoli on a sheet pan with lemon slices and garlic

A picture of step 3 broccoli is cooked on a tray

STEP 3: Remove the pan from the oven and add shredded parmesan cheese and serve.

Note: Cooking time can vary depending on the size of the broccoli and your texture preference. Remove the broccoli from the oven sooner if you prefer a crisper texture.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Broccoli– Fresh broccoli works best in this recipe, but it can be replaced with frozen broccoli. Frozen broccoli should be thawed and dried before roasting.

Parmesan cheese – Pecorino Romano, slightly sharper than parmesan, can be used as a substitute for parmesan cheese. For a vegan alternative, nutritional yeast can be used.

Garlic – If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be used. Substitute one clove of garlic with 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder, which can be added to the olive oil.

How to store leftovers

Leftover garlic lemon broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use leftovers in salads, pasta, whole grains, flatbreads, wraps or reheat it and enjoy it as it is.

an overhead view of broccoli on a white platter with a spoon on the side

Recipe variations

Try mixing and matching these variation suggestions or use them as inspiration to add your favorite ingredients to customize this simple roasted broccoli recipe into your own healthy side dish recipe.

Panko Crusted Roasted Broccoli – Add a crispy topping by combining panko bread crumbs with the parmesan cheese and a splash of olive oil and pop it under the broiler during the last few minutes of cooking.

Mediterranean Roasted Broccoli – Toss in any combination of sliced olives, red onion, and sun-dried tomatoes with the garlic.

Balsamic Glazed Roasted Broccoli – Drizzle balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction over the broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking

Spicy Roasted Broccoli – Make this easy broccoli recipe spicy with a dash of red pepper flakes and black pepper.

a picture of roasted broccoli and lemon slices on a plate

What to serve with garlic lemon roasted broccoli with

This tasty roasted broccoli tastes great garnished with lemon zest or a splash of fresh lemon juice alongside grilled beef, prime rib for two, pork chops, or chicken.

Make this broccoli recipe a delicious vegetarian meal and toss it with pasta or your favorite whole grains.

Tips

Pat the broccoli florets dry before tossing them with olive oil so that the oil adheres to the broccoli.
Spread the broccoli florets out on a baking sheet and avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting the broccoli.
Cut the broccoli florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
Save time and use pre-cut broccoli.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this roasted broccoli recipe in advance?

Yes, you can roast the broccoli ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. It may not be as cripsy reheated as it would be when freshly roasted.

How do I prevent the broccoli from burning?

Keep an eye on the broccoli while it is roasting. If you notice the ends are browning too fast, lower the temperature in the oven or adjust the baking sheet to a lower rack in the oven.

Why is my broccoli soggy and not crispy?

If your roasted broccoli fails to get crispy after roasting, it could be due to the broccoli being wet when placed into the oven or the baking sheet being overcrowded. For optimal results, ensure the broccoli has enough room for air circulation during roasting.