Cooking frozen broccoli in the oven is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable without much effort. Roasting frozen broccoli in the oven enhances its flavor and texture, resulting in crispy edges and tender florets. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- Frozen broccoli florets
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to roast the broccoli quickly and evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent the broccoli from sticking.
- Spread the Broccoli:
- Place the frozen broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the florets are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking and crispy edges.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil:
- Drizzle the frozen broccoli with olive oil, using about 1-2 tablespoons for every 16 ounces (450 grams) of broccoli. The oil helps to crisp up the broccoli and adds flavor.
- Season the Broccoli:
- Sprinkle the broccoli with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Toss the broccoli gently to coat it evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- Roast in the Oven:
- Place the baking sheet with the broccoli in the preheated oven.
- Roast the broccoli for 15-20 minutes, or until it is tender and golden brown around the edges.
- Stir or shake the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- Optional: Add Parmesan Cheese (if desired):
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted broccoli for added flavor. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve:
- Once the broccoli is roasted to your liking, remove it from the oven.
- Transfer the roasted broccoli to a serving dish and serve it immediately while it’s hot.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to customize your roasted broccoli with additional seasonings or ingredients. You can add lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the broccoli florets are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them together will cause them to steam instead of roast.
- Use a Hot Oven: Roasting at a high temperature ensures that the broccoli cooks quickly and develops crispy edges.
- Check for Doneness: The broccoli is done when it’s fork-tender and golden brown on the edges. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become mushy.
Roasting frozen broccoli in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable as a side dish or as part of your favorite recipes. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have flavorful roasted broccoli ready to serve in no time.
