Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that beautiful caramelization.
Take the frozen broccoli florets out of the freezer. There’s no need to thaw them; roasting from frozen is the secret to crispy results.
In a large bowl, combine the frozen broccoli florets with the extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and sugar (if using). Toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s space between the florets to allow for proper roasting.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, give the broccoli a good toss using a spatula to ensure even cooking. Look for a nice golden brown color and crispy edges.
Once the broccoli is done roasting, remove it from the oven. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the broccoli for a bright, fresh finish. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Transfer the roasted broccoli to a serving dish and enjoy it hot. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a snack!
