Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli Recipe
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired side dish with caramelized broccoli, bright lemon, and aromatic garlic. This easy 30-minute recipe delivers crispy edges and tender interiors with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Quick Dinner Recipes
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 large head broccoli, cut into 1.5– to 2-inch florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Toss broccoli florets in a large bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until evenly coated
Spread broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet
Roast for 15 minutes, then stir or flip the florets to ensure even browning
Return to oven for 10–12 minutes, until edges are crispy and charred in spots
If using Parmesan, sprinkle over roasted broccoli during the last 3 minutes of cooking
Garnish with fresh parsley and the remaining lemon juice before serving
Notes
Cut florets uniformly for even cooking
Substitute cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or broccolini as described
Check for doneness by testing texture—florets should be tender but not mushy
Lemons lose 5–10% acidity when zested, so taste and adjust seasoning if needed
Optional cheese garnish melts beautifully during roasting but is not essential
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One serving (assuming 4 equal portions)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg