Roasted Broccoli

Roasted Broccoli Recipe - Vegan & Vegetarian from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Roasted broccoli is a simple yet delicious side dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for various dishes. The combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out the natural flavors of the broccoli, while roasting it in the oven gives it a crispy texture.

History

Roasted broccoli has been a popular dish for many years, with its origins dating back to traditional cooking methods that involved roasting vegetables to enhance their flavors. This recipe has since evolved to include various seasonings and spices, but the basic concept of roasting broccoli remains the same.

Ingredients

Utensils

Parchment paper
Baking sheet
Bowl

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Chop the broccoli into bite-size pieces and place them in a bowl.
Drizzle 2-3 tbsp of olive oil over the broccoli and sprinkle with 2 pinches of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the broccoli evenly.
Cut a sheet of parchment paper to fit the size of your baking pan. Arrange the broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Bake for at least 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is nicely browned.
Serve the roasted broccoli on its own or as a topping for any dish.

Variations

Add grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs to the roasted broccoli for extra flavor.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes or garlic powder on the broccoli before roasting for a spicy kick.
Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits after roasting for a sweet and savory twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chop the broccoli into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Toss the broccoli in olive oil and seasonings in a bowl to coat it evenly before roasting.

- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent the broccoli from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

- Check the broccoli periodically while roasting to prevent it from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roasted broccoli as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

- Use the roasted broccoli as a topping for salads or pasta dishes.

- Enjoy the roasted broccoli on its own as a healthy snack.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the broccoli at a high temperature helps to caramelize the sugars in the vegetable, resulting in a crispy texture and enhanced flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, in place of olive oil.

- Substitute other vegetables, such as cauliflower or Brussels sprouts, for the broccoli in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can chop the broccoli and toss it in oil and seasonings ahead of time, then roast it just before serving.

- Store any leftover roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the roasted broccoli on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. - Arrange the roasted broccoli in a decorative bowl or dish for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the roasted broccoli with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve the roasted broccoli alongside a hearty main dish like roast chicken or beef stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the roasted broccoli in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Each serving of roasted broccoli contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

- Broccoli is a low-carb vegetable, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

- Each serving of roasted broccoli contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

- Olive oil is a healthy source of fats that adds flavor and richness to the roasted broccoli.

- Each serving of roasted broccoli contains approximately 7 grams of fats.

Proteins

- Broccoli is a good source of plant-based proteins, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

- Each serving of roasted broccoli contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as minerals like potassium and calcium.

- Each serving of roasted broccoli provides a significant amount of these essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for those with common food allergies.

Summary

Roasted broccoli is a nutritious side dish that is low in carbs and calories, high in vitamins and minerals, and free of common allergens.

Summary

Roasted broccoli is a simple and nutritious side dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With its crispy texture and flavorful seasonings, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a sunny afternoon in the early spring, and I had just finished tending to my garden. As I was picking some fresh broccoli, a neighbor of mine, Mrs. Jenkins, happened to pass by and stopped to chat.

Mrs. Jenkins was a dear friend of mine, and she was known for her amazing cooking skills. As we chatted, she mentioned that she had just made a delicious roasted broccoli dish for dinner the night before. Intrigued, I asked her for the recipe.

She smiled and said, "It's quite simple, really. Just toss the broccoli with some olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, and roast it in the oven until it's nice and crispy. It's a family favorite in our house."

I thanked Mrs. Jenkins for sharing the recipe with me and couldn't wait to try it out for myself. That evening, I prepared the roasted broccoli dish for dinner, and it was an instant hit with my family. The flavors were so rich and delicious, and the broccoli had the perfect amount of crunch.

From that moment on, roasted broccoli became a staple in our household. I made it for almost every dinner, and it never failed to impress. Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to make it my own, adding in different herbs and spices to enhance the flavors even more.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a beloved dish among them as well. It brings me so much joy to see their faces light up when they take their first bite of the crispy, flavorful broccoli.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were skeptical at first, as most children are when it comes to vegetables. But once they tried the roasted broccoli, they couldn't get enough of it. They even asked for the recipe so they could make it themselves at home.

It warms my heart to know that this simple recipe has brought so much happiness to those around me. I am grateful to Mrs. Jenkins for sharing it with me that sunny afternoon, and I will always cherish the memories made around the dinner table with this delicious dish.

As I continue to cook and share my recipes with others, I hope that they too can find joy and comfort in the simple act of preparing a meal for their loved ones. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also the soul. And for me, that is the true beauty of sharing recipes like this one for roasted broccoli.