Lemon Roasted Vegetables
A quick, delicious, and healthy side dish, these lemon-roasted vegetables are packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and heart-healthy fats. Perfectly crispy and bursting with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, they make an ideal everyday meal addition or effortless meal-prep option.
Equipment
- 1 large rimmed baking sheet
- Parchment paper for lining
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts halved lengthwise
- 4 large carrots quartered lengthwise into 2-inch chunks (or 16 oz baby carrots)
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 2 leeks thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley chopped
- 1 lemon juiced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to roast your vegetables evenly and achieve a delicious caramelization. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Using a rimmed sheet helps contain any juices or oil that may release during roasting.
- Prepare and Chop Vegetables: Wash all your vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise so they cook evenly and develop crisp, golden edges. Peel and quarter the carrots lengthwise, then cut them into 2-inch chunks to ensure they roast at the same rate as the other vegetables. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets for even cooking. Trim the leeks, keeping only the white and light green parts, and slice them thinly to prevent them from overpowering the dish.
- Mince Garlic and Chop Herbs: Peel and mince four cloves of garlic, aiming for a fine, even texture so it distributes flavor throughout the vegetables without burning. Roughly chop fresh Italian parsley, which will add a bright, herbaceous note that complements the zesty lemon. Set these aside for mixing with the vegetables.
- Combine Vegetables in Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, carrots, broccoli, leeks, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Make sure all vegetables are evenly distributed so that every bite will have a balanced mix of flavors.
- Add Olive Oil and Lemon: Pour ¼ cup of high-quality olive oil over the vegetables to provide healthy fats and encourage caramelization. Squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon evenly over the vegetables, making sure to coat all surfaces for a zesty brightness. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss everything together until every piece is lightly coated with oil, lemon, and herbs.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper evenly over the vegetables. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is uniformly distributed. This step is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables while adding a balanced savory touch.
- Arrange Vegetables on Baking Sheet: Transfer the tossed vegetables to your prepared baking sheet. Spread them in a single, even layer without overcrowding. Overcrowding can trap moisture and prevent them from roasting properly, which may result in soggy vegetables instead of a crispy, caramelized texture.
- Roast Vegetables in Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 35 minutes. At the halfway mark (around 15 minutes), use a spatula to carefully stir and flip the vegetables so they brown evenly on all sides. Keep an eye on them starting at 25 minutes—the edges should be golden and slightly crispy, and the interior should be tender.
- Check for Doneness and Adjust Texture: Test a few pieces by piercing with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy. If you prefer extra crispiness, continue roasting for a few more minutes, checking every 2–3 minutes to avoid burning. The goal is a balance of soft, flavorful centers with caramelized, slightly crispy edges.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two on the baking sheet. Transfer to a serving platter and, if desired, sprinkle with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately as a nutritious, fiber-rich, and flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of your vegetables; check at 25 minutes and adjust as needed.
- For even cooking, cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces. Smaller pieces will roast faster and become crispier.
- Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on seasonal availability—zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower work beautifully.
- Adding a drizzle of balsamic or red wine vinegar before roasting can give a subtle tangy sweetness.
- For a touch of natural sweetness, lightly coat vegetables with maple syrup or honey before roasting.
- Tossing vegetables halfway through roasting ensures even caramelization and prevents burning.
