Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower: Simple for the Side
Wendy KirbyThe process of roasting vegetables is so simple yet underrated. There is no need to coat vegetables with cheese or breadcrumbs and multiple seasonings. The best way to bring out the natural flavor and texture of most vegetables is to simply roast them with just a few seasonings.
I only recently discovered the beauty of roasted vegetables. I grew up in a home where most vegetables were boiled or steamed beyond recognition. Many people my age seem to have the same childhood memories of mushy vegetables that lacked any taste or texture. The best part about roasting vegetables is that there is very little preparation and very little cleanup involved.
I am a huge fan of spicy food. While this dish is full of flavor without the red pepper flakes, I like to kick up the heat level by including the flakes. If you or your family does not like spicy food leave the flakes out for a mellow flavor.
This simple side dish will please even the pickiest eaters and erase any childhood memories of overcooked vegetables.
Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups cauliflower florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli and cauliflower florets. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the broccoli and cauliflower and toss to coat the vegetables.
- Place seasoned florets on a greased or parchment lined baking sheet. Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes or until slightly tender and lightly browned.
- Toss the vegetable mixture with balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
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Comments (3 Total)
Did this with a bag of fresh cauliflower/baby carrots/brocolli from the produce section. I also used canola oil spray and garlic salt instead. Make sure to wait until it browns fully (may need a little more than 20 minutes). Delicious!
I also recently discovered the beauty of roasting broccoli and I love it! Green beans are also incredible roasted (you probably already discovered this).
I think this is a better idea than covering them in cheese ANY day of the week!