Charred Broccoli with Garlic & Lemon Zest
This easy oven-roasted side is one of the best charred broccoli recipes you'll ever try. Crispy edges, tender centers, and bursts of garlic and lemon make this a healthy dish full of flavor, texture, and brightness. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, anti-inflammatory, and family-approved.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet Use a large, rimmed one for even roasting
- 1 Oven Preheated to 400°F (200°C)
- 1 Mixing bowl For tossing broccoli with oil and seasoning
- 1 Microplane zester For fresh lemon zest (optional but recommended)
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli florets (bagged or from 2 crowns, trimmed evenly)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the broccoli florets to similar sizes for even roasting.
- Chop the garlic into halves or thirds—bigger pieces roast best.
- Add broccoli and garlic to a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss.
- Drizzle with avocado oil and mix to coat evenly.
- Spread broccoli in a single layer to avoid overcrowding.
- Roast on the middle rack for 20 minutes. Stir halfway through to rotate pieces.
- While roasting, zest the lemon.
- Broccoli is done when golden-brown with crispy edges and fork-tender.
- Remove from oven and toss with fresh lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the broccoli is dry before roasting to prevent steaming.
- For a flavor twist, add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika before roasting.
- Lemon zest is best added after roasting to keep it fresh and aromatic.
- Pair with grain bowls, roasted salmon, or tahini sauce for a full meal.
Nutrition
Serving: 150gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 180mgPotassium: 460mgFiber: 3.5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 75mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!