Makes 4 servings
Total Prep Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
6 cups (1440 ml) broccoli, cut into florets
2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
sea salt and black pepper
1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup toasted almond flakes
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C.
Lay broccoli on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil. Season and toss to coat. Arrange in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes until broccoli is cooked. Remove and transfer to a bowl. Add in lemon juice and pepper flakes, toss to combine. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top and serve with your favorite grilled meat or fish.
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Lemony roasted broccoli with almonds is the side dish that makes people eat broccoli like it is the main event. Florets roast at high heat until the edges char and caramelize, then get tossed with lemon juice and a whisper of red pepper flakes. Toasted almond flakes over the top turn each bite into something special.
Pro Tips
- Spread the florets in a true single layer. Crowded broccoli steams pale and soft; space is what creates those dark, caramelized edges.
- Roast until the tips of the florets are genuinely browned — almost black in spots. That char is where all the flavor hides.
- Add the lemon juice the moment the broccoli comes out of the oven. The hot florets absorb the juice instead of letting it pool at the bowl's bottom.
- Toast the almond flakes separately and sprinkle at the very end so they stay crunchy against the tender-crisp broccoli.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I roast frozen broccoli this way?
Yes, though it will steam a little more and take a few extra minutes. Dry the florets as well as you can and give them extra space on the pan.
What main dishes does this go with?
Grilled steak, chicken, or fish all love it alongside. The lemon cuts through rich proteins and the almonds make the vegetable feel substantial.
Is this recipe vegan?
Completely — broccoli, olive oil, lemon, chili, and almonds. It is one of those rare sides that pleases every table without any substitution.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C. Lay broccoli on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Season and toss to coat.
- Arrange in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes until broccoli is cooked.
- Remove and transfer to a bowl.
- Add in lemon juice and pepper flakes, toss to combine.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds on top and serve with your favorite grilled meat or fish.
