Grab your sheet pan and serve up this easy and enticing Garlic Roasted Broccoli. This heart-healthy recipe is equipped with crisp-tender broccoli, crushed red pepper, and pine nuts for a wonderful pop of buttery flavor. We also share tips below to guarantee a perfect crisp texture every time.
You can also make this Garlic Roasted Broccoli in an air fryer. Check out our recipe for Air Fryer Garlic Broccoli HERE!
This recipe is an excellent heart-healthy choice for several reasons:
Yes, roasted broccoli is very healthy. Roasting is a great cooking method that enhances flavor without adding significant unhealthy fats, especially when using olive oil. It retains many of broccoli's benefits, like fiber and vitamins.
To avoid soggy broccoli, ensure three things: 1) Your broccoli florets are completely dry before adding oil. 2) Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give the broccoli space for the hot air to circulate. 3) Roast at a high temperature (like 450°F) to evaporate moisture quickly.
Both temperatures work, but 450°F (as used in this recipe) provides a faster roast and helps achieve a crispier, more browned texture, which helps prevent sogginess. Roasting at 400°F will also work, but it may take slightly longer (20-25 minutes).
Tough or chewy broccoli is usually a sign of undercooking or roasting florets that are too large. Ensure your florets are cut into similar, bite-sized pieces for even cooking. If they are crisp on the outside but still tough inside, they may need a few more minutes.
These heart-smart veggie sides are easy to prepare and roasted or air fried to delectable perfection.
These sheet pan dinners and stir fries make it simple to get delicious and healthy weeknight meals on the table.
Recipe yields 4 servings
Preheat oven to 450°.
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic, red-pepper flakes, salt and black pepper to taste. Arrange the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 20 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Serve warm, garnished with toasted pine nuts, if desired.
For a non-vegan version, toss the roasted broccoli with 2-3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese immediately after removing it from the oven.
You can add other quick-roasting vegetables like sliced carrots or cauliflower florets. Ensure they are cut to a similar size and add them with the broccoli.
If you don't have pine nuts, toasted slivered almonds or sunflower seeds also add a nice crunch.