When it comes to pairing dishes, oven-roasted frozen broccoli makes a fantastic companion for various meals.
Whether you’re dishing out a juicy rotisserie chicken, a vibrant pasta salad, or a hearty soup, this nutritious side adds color and flavor to your plate. It's versatile enough to dress up a casual dinner or complement a special gathering.
Now, frozen broccoli might not seem like a superstar in the kitchen. Let's be honest, it often plays second fiddle to other veggies.
But after trying this oven-roasting method, you’ll see why frozen broccoli deserves a leading role in your meals. Trust me, the simplicity of this recipe paired with bold flavors will elevate any dish.
What is Oven Roasted Frozen Broccoli?
At its core, this recipe involves tossing frozen broccoli in a few staple ingredients and roasting it until tender, resulting in a caramelized texture and flavor that’s irresistible.
Yes, you read that right—who knew frozen vegetables could taste so good? Oven-roasting makes the broccoli crispy on the outside while keeping the insides soft and flavorful. You’ll never look at frozen broccoli the same way again!
Why You'll Love this Oven Roasted Frozen Broccoli Recipe
The appeal of oven-roasted frozen broccoli lies in its convenience and taste. First off, you can keep a bag of frozen broccoli in your freezer without worrying about spoilage. It’s a kitchen staple, ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Moreover, the flavors intensify as the broccoli roasts. When you sprinkle a bit of sea salt, garlic powder, and freshly cracked black pepper, it brings a savory punch that enhances every bite. It’s healthy, too!
This recipe offers a low-calorie side dish packed with vitamins like C and K—perfect for anyone looking to eat well without a hefty amount of calories.
Not to mention, the preparation is a breeze. Just toss the ingredients, pop them in the oven, and forget about them for a bit. What could be better? After making this dish so many times, I can guarantee it will quickly become a family favorite.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Oven Roasted Frozen Broccoli Recipe
1 medium lemon, cut in half
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 bag of frozen broccoli florets
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Directions
Ready to dive into the oven? Here’s how to make that frozen broccoli shine in just a few steps.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for roasting. This high temperature helps the broccoli get crispy and caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Let’s face it; no one enjoys scrubbing burnt residue off the pans!
Step 3: Toss the Broccoli
In a large bowl, combine the frozen broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Use tongs or your hands to toss everything around until the broccoli is well coated. Trust me, the oil is your friend here!
Step 4: Spread the Broccoli on the Baking Sheet
Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures every floret has enough space to roast nicely and not steam.
Step 5: Roast Away
Slide that baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 20-25 minutes. You want to stir the broccoli halfway through. This allows for even roasting. Keep an eye on them; you want those edges crispy but not burnt!
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Once the broccoli is beautifully roasted, remove it from the oven. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and sprinkle 1/4 cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Give it a gentle toss to combine.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the broccoli to your serving dish. This colorful side will surely catch everyone's attention. It's that simple. Just remember, the key to an amazing dish is patience while roasting.
Notes: Tips for the Best Oven Roasted Frozen Broccoli
Don’t Thaw First: Use the broccoli straight from the freezer. Thawing will change the texture, making it mushy instead of crisp.
Use High Heat: The higher the temperature, the better the caramelization. It brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add paprika, onion powder, or even some red pepper flakes for added heat!
Cheese Variations: If you don't have Parmesan, try using Romano or even crumbled feta for a different flavor profile.
Don’t Overcrowd: Give your broccoli space on the baking sheet. If you cram too many pieces together, they will steam instead of roast.
Storage Tips
Once you've made a batch, it’s smart to know how to store it:
Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool down before placing them in an airtight container. They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until hot. This will help to regain some crispiness.
Freezing: If you want to prepare in bulk, cooked broccoli can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat straight from frozen.
This dish is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to enjoy it alongside other dishes:
Grilled Chicken: A classic pairing. This broccoli complements the juicy, savory flavors of chicken beautifully.
Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta and a drizzle of olive oil for an easy weeknight meal.
Quinoa Salad: Mix in some cooked quinoa for an extra boost of protein. The flavors of broccoli add a satisfying crunch.
Stir-Fry: Combine with stir-fried tofu or shrimp for a quick and healthy dinner.
Salmon: The rich taste of roasted salmon fits perfectly with the bright, earthy flavors of the broccoli.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Oven Roasted Frozen Broccoli Recipe?
Feeling like shaking things up? Here are five substitute ingredients that you can use to play around with flavors:
Cauliflower florets: A great alternative with a similar cooking time and texture.
Brussels sprouts: Halve these and treat them just like broccoli for a slightly nuttier taste.
Green beans: These can also be roasted similarly; just cut them to fit.
Carrots: Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly. They’ll add a nice sweetness.
Asparagus: Another quick-cooking vegetable. Toss in the same seasonings for a gourmet touch.
Conclusion
So there you have it: a reliable and flavorful method to transform frozen broccoli from humble to heavenly. Oven-roasted frozen broccoli can be a star of your dinner table, proving that vegetables can be delicious, easy, and enjoyable.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can deliver a side dish that not only looks great but tastes even better. So what are you waiting for? Make this delightful dish tonight and breathe new life into your mealtime routines.
When it comes to pairing dishes, oven-roasted frozen broccoli makes a fantastic companion for various meals.
Whether you’re dishing out a juicy rotisserie chicken, a vibrant pasta salad, or a hearty soup, this nutritious side adds color and flavor to your plate. It's versatile enough to dress up a casual dinner or complement a special gathering.
Ingredients
1medium lemon, cut in half
1/4teaspoon garlic powder
1/2teaspoon sea salt
1/4cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1bag of frozen broccoli florets
2tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
1
Ready to dive into the oven? Here’s how to make that frozen broccoli shine in just a few steps.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
2
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for roasting. This high temperature helps the broccoli get crispy and caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
3
Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Let’s face it; no one enjoys scrubbing burnt residue off the pans!
Step 3: Toss the Broccoli
4
In a large bowl, combine the frozen broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
5
Use tongs or your hands to toss everything around until the broccoli is well coated. Trust me, the oil is your friend here!
Step 4: Spread the Broccoli on the Baking Sheet
6
Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures every floret has enough space to roast nicely and not steam.
Step 5: Roast Away
7
Slide that baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 20-25 minutes. You want to stir the broccoli halfway through. This allows for even roasting. Keep an eye on them; you want those edges crispy but not burnt!
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
8
Once the broccoli is beautifully roasted, remove it from the oven. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and sprinkle 1/4 cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Give it a gentle toss to combine.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
9
Transfer the broccoli to your serving dish. This colorful side will surely catch everyone's attention. It's that simple. Just remember, the key to an amazing dish is patience while roasting.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories124kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat0.5g1%
Saturated Fat2.7g14%
Trans Fat0.1g
Cholesterol16mg6%
Sodium931mg39%
Total Carbohydrate6g2%
Sugars2g
Protein4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Don’t Thaw First: Use the broccoli straight from the freezer. Thawing will change the texture, making it mushy instead of crisp.
Use High Heat: The higher the temperature, the better the caramelization. It brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add paprika, onion powder, or even some red pepper flakes for added heat!
Cheese Variations: If you don't have Parmesan, try using Romano or even crumbled feta for a different flavor profile.
Don’t Overcrowd: Give your broccoli space on the baking sheet. If you cram too many pieces together, they will steam instead of roast.
Keywords:
Oven Roasted Frozen Broccoli Recipe
Martha Adams
Registered Dietitian & Food Enthusiasts
Martha Adams is a registered dietitian and the creator of Cheap Delicious Meals, a blog focused on making healthy, tasty, and affordable meals accessible to all. With over a decade of experience, Martha combines her expertise in nutrition with a passion for budget-friendly cooking. Her goal is to inspire people to eat well without overspending.