Roasted Broccoli with Chili-Garlic and Lime Sauce

Roasted Broccoli with Chili-Garlic and Lime Sauce is a dish that takes simple ingredients and makes them sing. Imagine biting into perfectly roasted broccoli that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all while being coated in a spicy, savory sauce that tingles your taste buds. That’s the magic of this recipe!

You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip it up either. This delightful side dish is quick to prepare and only requires a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. Plus, it appeals to everyone—even those who claim they don’t like vegetables will find it hard to resist. With the bold flavors of chili, garlic, and a zing of lime, you’ll add a pop of excitement to your meals. So, let’s get started on making your new favorite go-to recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

Roasted Broccoli with Chili-Garlic and Lime Sauce captures a harmonious combination of textures and flavors. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the broccoli, enhancing its earthy flavor while adding a crispy exterior. The addition of chili-garlic and lime sauce brings a burst of umami and freshness, creating an irresistible dish that even non-vegetable lovers can’t resist.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Broccoli with Chili-Garlic and Lime Sauce

This recipe transforms broccoli into a vibrant, exciting side dish. The spicy, savory sauce serves as a delightful contrast to the tender yet crispy broccoli, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday feast. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and packs a nutritional punch that is bound to please anyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 2 medium broccoli crowns, cut into large florets
• 2 medium shallots, peeled and quartered
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 2 Tbsp. Thai sweet red chili sauce
• 2 tsp. fish sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small Fresno chili pepper, seeded and thinly sliced (or 1/4 tsp. dried chili flakes)
• 1 tsp. fresh grated ginger (or 1/2 tsp. ground ginger)
• 1 tsp. lime zest, plus 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil leaves (preferably Thai basil)
• 3 to 4 Tbsp. roasted chopped cashews

Preparing the Broccoli and Shallots

Preheat the Oven for Roasting

Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC) to ensure a perfect roast.

Toss Broccoli and Shallots with Olive Oil

On a large rimmed baking sheet, arrange the broccoli florets and quartered shallots. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Toss well to coat.

Roast the Vegetables

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes, allowing the broccoli to achieve a crispy caramelization. This step is crucial, as it gives the broccoli its delightful texture.

Making the Chili-Garlic Sauce

Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together the Thai sweet red chili sauce, fish sauce, minced garlic, sliced Fresno chili, grated ginger, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil until well combined. This sauce is where the magic happens; the flavors blend beautifully.

Finishing the Dish

Coat the Vegetables with Sauce

After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spoon the chili-garlic sauce over the roasted broccoli and shallots, tossing them well to ensure an even coating. This will make sure every bite is packed with flavor!

Return to Oven for Caramelization

Place the baking sheet back in the oven for another 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and infuse into the vegetables. Keep an eye on them during this time; you’ll want that perfect golden color.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer to Serving Plate

Once cooked, transfer the roasted broccoli and shallots to a serving plate. The vibrant colors alone will make your mouth water!

Add Finishing Touches

Top it off with lime zest, fresh lime juice, chopped basil, and roasted cashews for added texture and flavor. These little extras elevate the dish to something truly special.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a balanced meal. It also works great as a side for stir-fries or over simple grain bowls. The versatility makes it a fantastic addition to any menu.

Tips for Success

• For extra spiciness, leave some seeds in the Fresno chili.
• Adjust the amount of lime juice to your taste preference for acidity. A little extra tang can really brighten the flavors.
• Use fresh ginger for the best flavor, but ground ginger is a suitable alternative if that’s what you have on hand.

Variations

• Swap broccoli for cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for a different vegetable experience. Each option brings its unique flavor and texture.
• Add other herbs like cilantro or parsley for a unique flavor profile. Feel free to get creative!

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but fresh broccoli will yield better flavor and texture. If using frozen, adjust roasting time accordingly, perhaps by increasing it a bit.

2. Is this dish vegan?
Yes, if you omit the fish sauce, this dish is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans. You can easily replace it with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce for similar flavors.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Roast the veggies just before serving to keep them nice and crispy.

4. What can I substitute for fish sauce?
For a vegan alternative, consider using soy sauce or a homemade vegan fish sauce. It won’t have the exact same flavor but will still be delicious!

5. How spicy is it?
The spice level can be adjusted based on how much chili you add. The sweet red chili sauce balances the heat, making it suitable for most palates.

Roasted Broccoli with Chili-Garlic and Lime Sauce transforms a simple vegetable into an extraordinary dish sure to impress. With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, it’s an ideal addition to any meal. The balance of heat, sweetness, and zest creates a compelling experience that celebrates the vibrancy of fresh ingredients. Whether hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a gourmet side, this recipe will elevate your culinary adventures.

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