Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice

Name: Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups broccoli florets; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice because it combines the earthy flavor of roasted broccoli with the rich aroma of garlic, creating a simple yet delightful side dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in just 30 minutes. I often pair it with grilled chicken or fish, but it's also terrific on its own. The crispy broccoli adds a wonderful texture, and the garlic infuses the rice with a warm, comforting flavor that everyone at the table appreciates.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:16:12.725Z

When I first experimented with Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice, I knew I wanted to create something that elevated a simple ingredient like rice. The trick is roasting the broccoli until it's crispy and vibrant, which enhances its natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. I usually roast the broccoli while the rice cooks, so everything comes together seamlessly.

What I discovered is that adding garlic towards the end of the roasting process allows it to caramelize without burning. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful, savory kick that pairs perfectly with the rice. Don't be afraid to adjust the garlic to your taste—I often find myself adding a little more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy roasted broccoli brings a delightful crunch to each bite.
The garlic infuses the rice with an irresistible aroma and flavor.
It's a healthy, colorful addition to any meal that’s quick to prepare.

      

The Role of Garlic and Broccoli

Garlic is the powerhouse of flavor in this Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice. As it cooks with the broccoli towards the end, it turns golden and becomes sweet, adding depth to the overall dish. Be mindful not to add it too early, as garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can use garlic powder instead, but fresh garlic truly shines in this recipe.

Broccoli not only provides a delightful crunch but also brings a wealth of nutrients to the dish. To ensure even roasting, chop the florets into similar-sized pieces, ideally around 1 to 1.5 inches. This guarantees that they cook uniformly. If you have other vegetables on hand, such as cauliflower or Brussels sprouts, feel free to toss them in for added variety.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

The key to fluffy basmati rice lies in the water ratio and cooking time. Using vegetable broth instead of water elevates the dish's flavor profile significantly. Allow the broth to come to a rolling boil before adding the rice, then cover and reduce the heat to low immediately. This steam cooking method ensures the rice absorbs all the liquid, resulting in perfectly cooked grains that are separate and fluffy.

If you find your rice is often sticky, try rinsing it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This simple step can transform the texture, giving you the light, airy result you want. Additionally, using a fork to fluff the rice instead of a spoon will help maintain its integrity.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure to have everything measured and ready for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the basmati rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Broccoli

While the rice cooks, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet.

Roast the Broccoli

Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then add the minced garlic and stir. Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is crispy and the garlic is golden.

Combine and Serve

Once both the rice and broccoli are ready, fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the roasted broccoli and garlic. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zest.

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice!

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider stirring in a tablespoon of butter or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice can easily be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Prepare the rice and roast the broccoli earlier in the week and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat them together on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist while reheating.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the rice and broccoli mix. Just ensure it is completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, where it can last for up to three months. Additionally, reheating in a skillet can help revive some of the broccoli's crispiness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken or fish, but it can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian main dish. Consider adding chickpeas or lentils for extra protein, which will complement the existing flavors wonderfully. The addition of herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving can brighten the overall flavor, giving it a fresh finish.

For those who appreciate a little heat, you can amplify the red pepper flakes or chop up fresh chili peppers to mix in with the broccoli. Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts can bring in a delightful crunch and elevate the dish's visual appeal. Get creative with your variations to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just be sure to thaw and drain it well before roasting.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This Roasted Broccoli Garlic Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and contains no dairy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.