VEGGIE "HOOKUPS"
- njneeck
- Apr 1, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 9, 2023
Caught your attention! (what I won't do to get you to eat your vegetables...) Now minds out of the gutter and onto the baking sheet. In my book I have a chapter dedicated to my obsession with veggies. I can't get enough of them, so here are more of my favorite pairings, as in vegetables and seasonings that make a good match, using easy cooking techniques like roasting. You get the gist. Here's what I'm thinking...
OREGANO & LEMON ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
- Toss florets with oil, dried oregano, salt and pepper.
- Roast about 25 minutes at 425 degrees.
- Garnish with grated lemon zest when done.
GARLIC & CRUSHED RED PEPPER ROASTED BROCCOLINI
- Toss broccolini with oil, crushed red pepper, salt and pepper. Scatter peeled, lightly crushed garlic cloves on top before roasting.
- Roast about 15 minutes at 425 degrees.
TECHNIQUE AND TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL ROASTING:
Time and temperature: Recipes will tell you to roast vegetables anywhere within the range of 375 - 475 degrees. While there's no absolute right or wrong, there's one important factor to consider - the density and/or moisture content of the vegetable(s). We're aiming for tender, but not mushy when pierced with the tip of a knife, and browned around the edges but not burnt. In my time-tested opinion, the sweet spot is 425 degrees. Cooking times will vary.
375 degrees for 20 minutes vs 425 degrees for 20 minutes
Cut vegetables in even pieces for even cooking.
Coat lightly with oil: I prefer olive oil for its flavor. You don't need much, but a little will help the veggies brown evenly. Toss in a bowl along with seasonings (herbs, salt and pepper).
Toss in robust dried herbs before roasting, with the oil. Add fresh at the end for added punch.
Line a pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Don't crowd the pan. Arrange veggies evenly spaced in a single layer on the baking sheet. If piled on top of each other, they'll steam and won't brown evenly.
Season again before serving with a little coarse sea salt and a spritz of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors (optional).
