Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan Recipe

Kids don't usually beg for broccoli, at least not the kids I know.

So I was quite pleasantly surprised when my goddaughter and her sisters not only raved about roasted broccoli, but insisted on making a batch for me during a recent visit.

If this were how broccoli was always served, I would beg for it too.

Tender florets, tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt, roasted at high heat until nicely browned around the edges and stems (with some crispy bits), and then sprinkled generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese—yes, this is broccoli that anyone could love!

You can even skip the lemon and cheese if you want. The broccoli is great roasted on its own with some olive oil and salt. But don't skip the black pepper. Broccoli loves pepper!

Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan

Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Total Time 25 mins

Servings 3 to 4 servings

The measurements are just a guideline. Add more or less olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, or cheese to taste.

1 1/2 pounds (680g) broccoli, cut into florets of even size
3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice from half a lemon, about 1 Tbsp
Kosher salt
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste

Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss broccoli and garlic with olive oil, lemon juice, salt

In a large bowl toss the broccoli florets and minced garlic with olive oil and lemon juice until lightly coated. Sprinkle salt over the broccoli and toss to coat.
Arrange florets in a single layer on baking sheet

Arrange the broccoli florets in a single layer on a baking sheet that has been rubbed with some olive oil or lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Elise Bauer

Elise Bauer
Roast for 16-20 minutes

Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 16-20 minutes until cooked through (check by poking with a fork, should be fork tender) and lightly browned. The browned bits are the best! So don't worry if you see some charring.
Toss with Parmesan and black pepper

Put the roasted broccoli back in the bowl and toss with lots of freshly ground black pepper and the grated parmesan cheese. Be generous with the black pepper, broccoli loves it!

Serve immediately.