This is one of our base recipes. If you think that you don’t like broccoli, then you have to try this crispy roasted broccoli base recipe. If you already like broccoli, get ready to like it even more!. Try it out for yourself!
Three Must-Know Cooking Skills
For culinary success, learn how to:
Culinary Tips for the Best Roasted Broccoli
Combining the oil, salt, and spices in a bowl first ensures even flavor distribution.
If using a whole broccoli crown, be sure to cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets. For pre-cut florets in a bag, break large pieces into smaller pieces.
If using a head of broccoli that has a long stem, don’t throw the stem away! Peel the extra tough layers off, then dice the remaining stem into bite-sized pieces.
Should you steam broccoli before roasting? Nope! The broccoli will cook all the way through in the oven.
Do not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding causes steaming which will lead to mushy broccoli!
If adding the optional cheese, add it during the last minute of cooking so that it melts but doesn’t burn.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice on roasted broccoli after cooking for a pop of bright flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Canola Oil: substitute avocado or a lower quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Broccoli: use pre-chopped florets, stems, or crowns. You can also use broccolini, but note that the final texture will be different.
- Spices: use just one spice, a combination of your favorites, or a pre-made spice blend. Chili powder, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and garlic powder are some of our favorites.
Recipe Variations
Because this is a base recipe, the goal is for you to customize it to your taste!
Want some extra heat? Make spicy roasted broccoli by adding ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
There are so many seasoning options for roasted broccoli. In addition to a little salt, use spices to match the flavors of your favorite cuisine.
- Indian spiced roasted broccoli: use garam masala or curry powder.
- Mediterranean roasted broccoli: use ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and add fresh dill, oregano, and/or mint after cooking.
- Mexican roasted broccoli: add 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon chili powder, and ½ teaspoon paprika.
Sprinkle with or toss in fresh, chopped parsley, basil, dill, or cilantro after cooking for herb roasted broccoli.
Add a squeeze of lemon to all of these variations to pull the flavors together!
Equipment Recommendations
You just need a few simple equipment items for this recipe!
Health Benefits of Crispy Roasted Broccoli
Crispy roasted broccoli has way more flavor than raw or steamed, so if you’re working to get picky eaters to eat their veggies, this is an easy recipe to add to your rotation! The featured ingredients in this recipe are broccoli, canola oil, and spices.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable and a member of the dark green vegetable category. Most Americans don’t get enough vegetables from either of these groups and are therefore missing out on many health promoting benefits. Broccoli is also a good source of plant-based calcium. (1)
Canola Oil
Canola oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids. It also has a high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking methods, such as roasting.
Spices
Spices add flavor and nutrition to this recipe. Using spices decreases the need for salt, which may help reduce hypertension risk and therefore promote heart health. (2) Additionally, most spices contain powerful antioxidants which may help reduce inflammation. (3)
Learn more about the health benefits of spices in this article!
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Spiced Broccoli
Serve spiced roasted broccoli as a tasty side to roasted salmon, beef and bean burgers, or turkey meatballs to create a balanced plate. Or combine with whole grains and beans for a balanced bowl. Combine with cooked quinoa, roasted chickpeas, shredded chicken, and a tasty vinaigrette to make a beautiful and flavorful meal!
Storage Tips
Roasted broccoli will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator, although it will definitely lose some of its crispness as it sits! Reheat in a 375ºF oven for best texture.
Want more healthy vegetable recipes?
Check out these favorites, and as always, adjust to YOUR taste!
Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges Base Recipe
Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad
Crispy Roasted Broccoli Base Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces broccoli florets (~1 large head with stems or 1 medium crown)
- 1 ½ Tablespoons canola or avocado oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
Optional additions/garnishes
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh herbs
- 1-2 small cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Tablespoons grated or shredded cheese
- ¼-1 teaspoon spice(s)
- Lemon juice and/or zest from half lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ºF.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together oil, salt, and pepper. If adding garlic and/or spices, mix in here.
- Break larger broccoli florets into smaller pieces and add to the bowl. Using a spatula, toss to evenly coat.
- Spread broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan. Roast 16-18 minutes or until edges are brown and florets are easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with optional ingredients to taste. Enjoy!
