Roasted Broccoli with Lemon, Basil, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Roasted broccoli is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With the addition of toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, and tangy goat cheese, this dish makes a delicious side or salad that can be served warm or cold.

Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli
- 2 shallots
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- 1/4 cup goat cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Step 2: Spread the broccoli and shallots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Step 3: Roast the vegetables for 30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Step 4: While the broccoli roasts, toast the pine nuts in a small sauté pan over medium heat until lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, juice of the lemon, and fresh basil.
- Step 6: Once the broccoli and shallots are roasted, transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the basil-lemon dressing, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and goat cheese, then toss gently to combine.
- Step 7: Serve the dish warm or chilled as a tasty side or salad.
Tips & Variations
- Use different nuts like walnuts or almonds if pine nuts are unavailable.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil dressing for a subtle kick.
- Swap goat cheese with feta for a sharper flavor.
- For extra texture, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Storage
Store any leftover roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, or enjoy cold as a salad. The pine nuts and goat cheese are best added fresh or just before serving to maintain texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I roast frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Fresh broccoli is preferred for roasting, as frozen broccoli can release excess moisture and result in a less crisp texture. If using frozen, be sure to pat it dry thoroughly before roasting.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, omit the goat cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The flavors will still be vibrant and satisfying.
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Roasted Broccoli with Lemon, Basil, Pine Nuts, and Goat Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Broccoli recipe features tender, flavorful broccoli and shallots baked to perfection and topped with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil dressing, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect as a warm side dish or a refreshing salad, it’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy vegetables with vibrant herbal and citrus notes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head Broccoli
- 2 Shallots
Seasoning & Oil
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (divided)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Toppings & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Pine Nuts
- 1 Lemon (juice only)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup Goat Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables.
- Prepare Vegetables: Spread the broccoli and shallots evenly on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle salt and black pepper over everything. Toss gently to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Roast Vegetables: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 30 minutes. After 15 minutes, turn the vegetables over to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Toast Pine Nuts: While the broccoli roasts, warm a small sauté pan over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them until they turn lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, the juice from the lemon, and fresh basil until well combined.
- Combine and Serve: Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a serving bowl, drizzle with the basil-lemon dressing, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and goat cheese on top, and toss gently to mix. Serve warm as a side or chilled as a salad.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, you can lightly chop the pine nuts after toasting.
- If goat cheese is not available, feta works well as a substitute.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness in the dressing.
- Broccoli florets can be cut smaller or larger depending on preference, but cook time may adjust accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and served cold or reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: roasted broccoli, side dish, vegetable recipe, baked broccoli, pine nuts, goat cheese, basil dressing

