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Nothing rounds out a comforting pasta dinner like a warm, savory side dish that’s bursting with flavor. This Zesty Lemon-Garlic Broccoli Bake features golden, roasted florets studded with plenty of hearty garlic flavor and a bright pop of lemon. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to bring a delicious twist to your next pasta night.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, thoroughly wash and dry your broccoli florets, ensuring they’re roughly the same size for even cooking. In a large mixing bowl, toss the florets with olive oil, chopped garlic, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you’d like a bit of spicy heat. Spread everything out evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure the broccoli isn’t overcrowded.
Roast the broccoli in the center of the oven for about 15 minutes, then remove the sheet and gently flip the florets. Return the pan to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is fork-tender and the edges are beginning to caramelize. Once the florets are golden and toasty, take the sheet out of the oven and drizzle the broccoli with fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle on the lemon zest and Parmesan cheese, and pop it back into the oven for one more minute to let the cheese melt and get bubbly.
When the broccoli is lightly browned and aromatic, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish and admire the bright green florets kissed with tangy lemon and nutty Parmesan.
This quick yet flavorful recipe is so versatile—it’s a hit at family dinners and just as perfect for entertaining guests. Because it’s lower in carbs and loaded with nutrients, it’s also a healthy option that easily fits into many dietary preferences. If you’re in the mood for variation, try swapping out the broccoli for zucchini wedges or cauliflower florets, or experiment with extra seasonings like smoky paprika or rosemary. Whichever spin you choose, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs beautifully with any pasta.
