I love broccoli! I just do! Don’t ask me why.

I remember when George Bush, Sr. was in the White House he famously made some pejorative remark about this marvelous green vegetable. Silly man! I bet President Obama eats his broccoli without comment. I delight in eating mine, especially when its oven roasted in olive oil with garlic. It invariably turns out sweet and savory and a bit smoky. If you’re hesitant about this cruciferous wonder, then this is the recipe to try. If you’re already hooked, then you probably have made this before many times. I know that I have.

Oven Roasted Broccoli

1 bunch fresh broccoli, cut into large bite-sized pieces
6 cloves garlic, peeled and cut in slices
Kosher salt to taste
black and crushed red pepper to taste (just a dash will do)
2-3 tbs. olive oil

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl, tossing so olive oil and garlic thoroughly covers broccoli. Spread dressed vegetable on a cooking sheet. Place on highest rack under broiler. Broil about ten to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to have even cooking. You’ll know when it’s finished when it tastes tender and begins to char on the edges a bit.

This is a great side dish for almost any meal. Because it’s not boiled, it retains all of its vitamins. I love it with rice and beans or pasta with tomato sauce.

oven roasted broccoli