Lemon Zest Garlic Broccoli

Name: Lemon Zest Garlic Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs broccoli florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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This Lemon Zest Garlic Broccoli recipe is a vibrant and flavorful twist on roasted veggies. The zesty lemon and savory garlic pair beautifully with roasted broccoli, making it a fresh, nutritious side dish that's quick and easy to prepare.

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Ingredients for Lemon Zest Garlic Broccoli

Broccoli florets provide the base of this dish, offering a crisp-tender texture and a mild flavor that soaks up the garlic and lemon beautifully. Using pre-cut florets can save you time.

Olive oil helps the broccoli roast to perfection, creating a slightly crisp exterior. It also adds a subtle richness that complements the other flavors.

Garlic, when minced and roasted, becomes sweet and aromatic, infusing the broccoli with deep flavor.

Lemon zest and juice bring a refreshing acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the olive oil and cheese.

Sea salt enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish, while freshly ground black pepper adds a slight kick.

Grated Parmesan cheese provides a savory, umami finish that ties everything together. It melts slightly over the warm broccoli, creating a delicious coating.

Tips & Tricks

For extra crispy broccoli, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the broccoli.
If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of fresh.
Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it—it's much easier!

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Zest Garlic Broccoli pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It's also a great addition to a vegetarian grain bowl, adding texture and flavor. If you're serving pasta, this broccoli makes a delightful side, complementing creamy or tomato-based sauces beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?: Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent browning.
What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?: You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or leave out the cheese for a vegan option.
How do I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Lemon Zest Garlic Broccoli Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that when your broccoli hits the oven, it's hot enough to start roasting immediately. While the oven preheats, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your broccoli florets.

Drizzle the olive oil over the broccoli. The goal is to coat the florets evenly, so they roast evenly. Add the minced garlic next, followed by the lemon zest and juice. Sprinkle in the sea salt and black pepper. Use a large spoon or your hands to mix everything, ensuring the broccoli is well-coated with oil and seasonings.

Now, spread the broccoli out in a single layer on a baking sheet. This is important—crowding the pan will steam the broccoli instead of roasting it. Place the baking sheet in the oven and let it roast for about 18-20 minutes. You'll know it's done when the edges are slightly browned and the broccoli is tender-crisp.

Once it's out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Toss everything gently so the cheese melts slightly and coats the florets. Serve it up warm and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright and zesty flavor that elevates simple broccoli.
Quick prep and cooking time—ready in under 30 minutes.
Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Perfect side dish for a variety of meals, from pasta to grilled meats.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs broccoli florets

2 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper.

3. Arrange the broccoli mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.

4. Roast for 18-20 minutes, or until the broccoli starts to brown on the edges and becomes tender-crisp.

5. Remove from the oven and toss with grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Serve warm.

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