Roasted broccoli with garlic and parmesan is a quick and easy side dish packed with flavor. This oven-baked recipe creates crispy, tender broccoli florets seasoned with garlic salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and melted parmesan cheese. Perfect for healthy dinners, meal prep, or serving with chicken, pasta, or grain bowls. A family-friendly vegetable recipe ready in under 20 minutes, using simple pantry ingredients.

Crispy, golden roasted broccoli seasoned with garlic salt and black pepper, finished with a hint of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan. A quick and flavorful side dish that brings out the best in this everyday vegetable.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

1 large head of broccoli (or 2 medium), chopped into florets (approx. 340g / 12 oz)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice (juice of about ½ a lemon)
25 g (¼ cup) grated parmesan

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) fan. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet in a heap.
Season and Toss
Drizzle the olive oil over the broccoli, then sprinkle on the garlic salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Toss everything together using your hands until the florets are evenly coated.
Add the Cheese
Spread the broccoli out into a single layer. Sprinkle the grated parmesan evenly over the top.
Roast
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the edges are lightly browned and crisp.
Serve
Serve hot, optionally with a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.

Tips

Even roasting: Spread the broccoli in a single layer without crowding to ensure it roasts instead of steaming.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
For extra crispiness, roast slightly longer, checking frequently to prevent burning.

Variations and Substitutions

Make it vegan: Skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Add spice: Toss in some chili flakes before roasting or drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or sunflower seeds just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and pat it dry thoroughly first. It won’t be as crisp as fresh but still works well.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the broccoli and season it in advance. Roast just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu.
Add to a grain bowl with quinoa or rice.
Use as a topping for baked potatoes or toss into pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with flavor from garlic, lemon, and parmesan
Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for various diets
A great way to get kids (and adults) to eat more vegetables
Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or holiday sides