Roasted Broccoli And Cauliflower

Name: Roasted Broccoli And Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets; 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Fresh Daily Nutrition

I absolutely love making Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower as a healthy side dish. The seasonings combined with the caramelization from roasting brings out such delicious flavors! Using high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt makes all the difference. I often find that this dish not only complements main courses beautifully but also serves as a great snack on its own. It’s a quick, easy recipe that requires minimal prep time and delivers maximally satisfying elements to any meal.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:29:36.196Z

I remember the first time I served Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower at a family gathering. Everyone was surprised by the flavors, and I realized that roasting vegetables unlocks their natural sweetness. I like to preheat the oven really well before adding the vegetables, as this helps achieve that perfect crisp-tender texture. Tossing them with garlic and lemon zest at the end adds a refreshing burst!

Another tip I found invaluable is to make sure the vegetables are all cut into similar sizes. This ensures they cook evenly, so you won't find some pieces overcooked while others are still raw. Plus, the slightly charred edges are just heavenly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nuts and bolts of simple, wholesome ingredients
Perfectly caramelized texture that enhances flavors
A versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with any entrée

Understanding Roasting Techniques

Roasting vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower not only enhances their flavor but also caramelizes their natural sugars, leading to a delightful taste profile. The high oven temperature of 425°F (220°C) encourages a Maillard reaction, creating crispy edges while keeping the insides tender. A common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet, which can lead to steaming rather than roasting. Be sure to leave space between the florets—this allows hot air to circulate and promotes that essential, golden-brown exterior.

Timing is essential when roasting to achieve that perfect texture. Setting a timer for 20 minutes is a good start, but keep an eye on the vegetables. They should be slightly charred around the edges while still vibrant in color. If you prefer a deeper caramelization, feel free to extend the roasting time by a few minutes, checking regularly to ensure they don’t burn.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality olive oil is crucial when roasting vegetables. It not only contributes to the overall flavor but also helps achieve that lovely golden-brown finish. If you're looking for a lighter option or need to accommodate a dietary restriction, you can substitute the olive oil with avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. Just prepare to use the same amount for adequate coating of the florets.

The garlic in this recipe can be adjusted according to your taste. If you love garlic, consider adding a bit more or roasting whole cloves alongside your vegetables to mellow their flavor. Alternatively, for a different taste experience, try using shallots or even shallot powder for a distinct sweetness that complements the cruciferous veggies beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a tasty side dish:

Ingredients

1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Zest of 1 lemon

These ingredients come together to create a beautiful and delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect roast:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a nice roast.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the broccoli and cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Roast

Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Add Lemon Zest

Remove from the oven and immediately toss with lemon zest before serving.

Enjoy your perfectly roasted broccoli and cauliflower!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the roasted broccoli and cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, aim for a method that restores some of that crispy texture—using an oven rather than a microwave is ideal. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the veggies out on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, just until heated through and crisped up again.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing your roasted veggies. Spread them out on a baking sheet to flash freeze for a couple of hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from clumping together. When ready to eat, you can roast them directly from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Roasted broccoli and cauliflower serve as a fantastic side dish, but don’t overlook their versatility. Try tossing them into a salad for added flavor and crunch or mixing them into a grain-based bowl with quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal. Drizzling a balsamic glaze or sprinkling feta cheese on top before serving can elevate the dish even further with complementary flavors.

For a spicier twist, consider adding red pepper flakes or smoked paprika before roasting for some heat. Alternatively, sprinkle your roasted veggies with nutritional yeast after they come out of the oven for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Don’t hesitate to mix in additional vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, for a colorful blend that appeals to all tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Carrots and bell peppers roast well alongside broccoli and cauliflower.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just omit any cheese toppings and enjoy as is.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or can be added to grain bowls.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can roast these ahead and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.