Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures all in one pan, this Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe is your new best friend. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside potatoes paired with perfectly roasted broccoli bring a wonderful heartiness to the table, while the zing of lemon zest and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevate every bite to utterly crave-worthy territory. It’s a simple yet sophisticated side or light main that feels like a warm hug on a plate, ready to brighten any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but pack a flavorful punch. Each element plays a crucial role: the potatoes give you that golden crispness, broccoli adds bursts of green freshness, and the Parmesan and lemon zest tie it all together with savory and bright notes.

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) small new potatoes: Choose uniform-sized potatoes to ensure even roasting and a perfect crispy skin.
• 1 head of broccoli: Fresh, firm florets work best for roasting – they’ll get delightfully crispy on the edges.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for roasting to give that lovely golden color and to help all the flavors meld.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herby warmth complementing the lemon and cheese.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky richness without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon coarse ground pepper: For a gentle kick and added depth.
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional): For those who love a hint of heat, this adds a lovely background spice.
• ¼ cups grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the topping, providing a nutty, savory finish.
• Zest of 1 small lemon: Brings bright citrus notes that lighten and freshen every mouthful.

How to Make Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

Start by washing your new potatoes thoroughly. You can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrition. Cut them into evenly sized pieces so they roast uniformly. Trim your broccoli into bite-sized florets, making sure they are dry before roasting to encourage crisping rather than steaming.

Step 2: Season Thoroughly

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and broccoli with olive oil, sea salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Make sure each piece is well coated with oil and spices – this is where your dish begins building layers of flavor.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet in a single layer; overcrowding will cause steaming rather than roasting. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (about 400°F) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. You want those potatoes golden and the broccoli edges slightly charred for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Lemon Zest

As soon as the vegetables come out of the oven, sprinkle the hot roasted mix with freshly grated Parmesan and lemon zest. The residual heat will melt the cheese into little pockets of savory goodness while the lemon zest adds a burst of freshness that makes this dish unforgettable.

How to Serve Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

Garnishes

This dish shines with simple garnishes like a handful of fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving. Adding a couple of lemon wedges on the side invites a late squeeze of citrus if you want to amplify that fresh zing even more.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is hearty and flavorful enough to be a stand-alone vegetarian option, it pairs gloriously well alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a warm grain salad. The crispy textures and bold flavors complement proteins and other sides beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or casual weekend feast, serve your Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe piled high in a rustic wooden bowl or beautiful ceramic dish, allowing guests to help themselves. You can sprinkle some toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts on top for an extra crunch and elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish tends to keep its flavors well even after a day or two, making it a perfect quick reheat option.

Freezing

Because of their texture, roasted potatoes and broccoli can lose firmness once frozen and thawed, so freezing is possible but not ideal if you want to preserve the crispiness. If needed, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a container to prevent clumping.

Reheating

To bring back some of that freshly roasted texture, reheat leftovers in a hot oven or toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes rather than using the microwave. This helps crisp them back up and keeps that delightful bite intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is best for roasting to achieve that crispy texture, but if you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and thoroughly dry the florets before roasting to avoid sogginess.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?

A hard cheese like Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute, or you could try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still offers a cheesy flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or sprinkle with nutritional yeast to keep the savory umami notes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s a fantastic choice for meal prep. Just store in individual portions and reheat in the oven to restore that roasted crispness before eating.

How can I add more spice to this dish?

Increasing the amount of chili flakes or adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne powder before roasting will add wonderful warmth and depth.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delightful. Whether you are feeding a family or just treating yourself, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and brightness to your table in one beautiful bite. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite you return to again and again!

Print