Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers
If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, nutritious side dish that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers recipe. With its perfect balance of crispy, tender broccoli and sweet, caramelized red bell peppers, this dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Toss in some garlic and a drizzle of olive oil, and you have a recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty grain bowl, this roasted veggie medley is sure to elevate any meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers apart is the combination of textures and flavors. The broccoli florets become slightly crispy in the oven, while the red bell peppers caramelize beautifully, adding a natural sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory garlic. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, and the dish is easily customizable to suit your preferences. It’s a wholesome, plant-based side that can fit into any dietary preference—perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
What’s in the Bowl
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large mixing bowl – for tossing your veggies with oil and seasonings.
- Baking sheet – a large, rimmed baking sheet will work best for even roasting.
- Parchment paper (optional) – for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping your veggies.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for tossing the vegetables on the baking sheet.
Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will ensure your vegetables roast rather than steam, resulting in that lovely, crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. Do the same with the red bell pepper, slicing it into strips. The uniform size of the vegetables will help them cook evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets and red bell pepper strips. Add the finely chopped garlic, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use a spatula to toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated.
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between them so they can roast properly and develop that beautiful caramelization.
Step 5: Roast in the Oven
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give the vegetables a good toss to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for tender broccoli and slightly charred edges on both the broccoli and red peppers.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the vegetables are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious flavors of your Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers!
Easy Ingredient Swaps
- Olive oil – can be substituted with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic – feel free to use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, though fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
- Red bell pepper – swap it with yellow or orange bell peppers for a different sweetness or use a spicy pepper for a kick.
- Salt – if you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a salt-free seasoning blend.
Mistakes That Ruin Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers
Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making your Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers:
- Overcrowding the pan – If the vegetables are too close together, they will steam instead of roast. Give them space!
- Not preheating the oven – A hot oven is critical for achieving that crispy texture. Don’t skip this step!
- Using old vegetables – Fresh broccoli and peppers yield the best flavor and texture. Always choose the freshest produce you can find.
- Skipping the toss – Tossing the vegetables halfway through cooking ensures even roasting.
Storage Pro Tips
To enjoy your Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers later, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the roasted vegetables. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen.
Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers FAQs
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other favorites like cauliflower, carrots, or even zucchini for a more colorful veggie medley.
How do I know when the vegetables are done roasting?
The broccoli should be tender with crispy edges, and the red bell peppers should be slightly caramelized. A fork should easily pierce the broccoli florets when they’re done.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the vegetables ahead of time and reheat them before serving. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy them.
What can I serve with Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for grain bowls. It also makes a tasty addition to salads or wraps.
Next Steps
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips to make your Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This simple yet flavorful side dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking to add more vegetables to your diet, this recipe is the perfect solution.
The beauty of roasted vegetables lies in their versatility. You can enjoy them warm, toss them into salads, or even include them in breakfast dishes like frittatas or omelets. The possibilities are endless, and the flavors will always be on point.
So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious, healthy journey. Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your cooking adventure with this stunning Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers recipe, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family. Happy roasting!
Roasted Broccoli with Red Peppers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will ensure your vegetables roast rather than steam, resulting in that lovely, crispy texture.
- Step 2: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. Do the same with the red bell pepper, slicing it into strips.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets and red bell pepper strips. Add the finely chopped garlic, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated.
- Step 4: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between them for proper roasting.
- Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through for even cooking.
- Step 6: Once roasted, remove from the oven, taste, and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a different flavor, substitute olive oil with avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
- Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is not available, but fresh is preferred.
- Mix in other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for added variety.
