Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli (Printable)

Crisp-tender broccoli infused with garlic and bright lemon zest, a flavorful and healthy side dish.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb fresh broccoli florets

→ Aromatics

02 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Oils & Seasonings

03 - 3 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
05 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Finishing

06 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
07 - Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until thoroughly coated.
03 - Spread the coated broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Roast for 18 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the broccoli is tender and edges turn lightly browned.
05 - Remove from oven, drizzle immediately with lemon juice, sprinkle with lemon zest, and gently toss to combine.
06 - If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli before serving. Serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Roasting transforms broccoli from something you tolerate into something you actually crave.
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when you need a side that feels effortless.
  • The lemon brightens everything at the last second, so it tastes fresh rather than heavy.
02 -
  • Overcrowding the pan is the biggest mistake—broccoli steams instead of roasts if pieces are packed too tightly together.
  • Adding the lemon at the very end, while everything is still hot, makes it taste bright rather than just adding a sour tang.
03 -
  • Use florets that are roughly the same size so they roast evenly without some pieces burning before others finish cooking.
  • If your lemon feels hard, microwave it for 15 seconds before zesting and juicing—it'll give you more juice and make zesting easier.
Go Back