Are you ready to learn how to roast vegetables the right way? Tender veggies with a big flavor are so simple and easy to do!
If you are anything like me, you probably don’t get enough veggies in your diet. Cold vegetables just don’t sound appealing, but roasted vegetables make eating them so much easier. Not only do they taste better, but roasting them is a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies too.
The key to everyone getting enough vegetables in their diet is learning how to roast vegetables. Here’s everything you need to know to transform your plain veggies into delicious roasted veggies!
Roast the Right Veggies
I personally think that any vegetable is good for roasting, but not everyone has the same taste buds. So, the first thing you need to know is what vegetables to roast. The following veggies are my favorite roasting options:
- Root vegetables
- Potatoes
- Parsnips
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Zucchini
- Onions
- Bell peppers
- Cabbage
- Tomatoes
However, the best way to know is to experiment.
How to Roast Vegetables
The way you roast vegetables really depends on what vegetables you are roasting. Different vegetables call for different times, so if you want to have more than one veggie, you have to know how to pair them together and what times to use them. You can roast any vegetable in the oven!
How to Roast Vegetables in the Oven
When roasting your veggies in the oven, you will want your oven to be at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. So go ahead and preheat your oven!
Roasting Times for Vegetables
Different vegetables require different times. Here is a guide to help you!
- Root Vegetables: They are your potatoes, carrots, beats, etc. You will want to have them in the oven for 30-45 minutes.
- Winter squash: Squash can take a little longer depending on how big or small you cut it. Smaller pieces take about 20 minutes whereas larger pieces can take 60 minutes.
- Crucifers: This would be your broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, etc. These take about 15 to 25 minutes in the oven.
- Soft Veggies: Veggies like zucchini, summer squash, and bell peppers are soft veggies. Soft veggies only take about 10 to 20 minutes to roast.
- Thin veggies: Veggies like asparagus and green beans take 10 to 20 minutes as well.
- Onions: I love onions with my other veggies. But, they can take a little longer and should be started first. Onions need to roast for about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes may seem like a soft veggie, but they roast a little differently. Tomatoes take about 15 to 20 minutes to roast.
Tips for Delicious Oven-Roasted Vegetables
When it comes to roasting your vegetables, there are a few tips to making them lip-smacking good!
- Cut into bite-size pieces. The smaller you cut the pieces, the tastier they come out.
- Use enough oil. The vegetables need a slick, glossy coating. The oil helps the veggies cook evenly and helps them crisp in the oven. 1 to 2 tablespoons are usually enough.
- Spread your veggies out. Crowding your veggies will make them steam instead of roast. So, you want a little space in between your veggies.
- Roast until you see toasted edges. The charred bits on your veggies are what make roasted vegetables so darn delicious!
Directions for Roasting Vegetables
Once you have figured out what veggies you want to roast, it’s time to get roasting. Here’s what you need to do to get the best roasted veggies!
1. Preheat
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.
2. Prep the vegetables
Chop up your veggies. Remember, smaller pieces cook more evenly and take less time.
3. Season the vegetables
Toss your veggies in olive oil and seasoning. I use salt and pepper, but garlic salt and onion powder add more flavor. Make sure the veggies are evenly coated and not dry.
4. Put on baking sheet
Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet. Check the times above to see how long your vegetables will take to cook.
5. Roast vegetables
Roast your vegetables until they are tender. You will want to check on them every 10 to 15 minutes to see how they are coming along. You will want to continue roasting the vegetables until they are easily poked with a fork and are showing crispy edges.
Serve. Enjoy your delicious roasted veggies!
Roasted Vegetable FAQS
Do you roast vegetables covered or uncovered in the oven?
To roast them to perfection, leave them uncovered. This will give them a crisp taste and flavor without a steaming effect that will happen if you cover them with a lid.
Why do vegetables need to be spaced out when roasted?
This is because of the moisture content of the veggies. Give them space in the baking sheet so that the water doesn’t seep out and make the other veggies close by soggy.
Do you have to peel carrots before roasting them?
Nope, not at all! Some people like to peel their carrots before roasting but others think it’s just fine to leave the outer layer of the carrot on just like it is.
