Name: Roasted Broccoli Toast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; Olive oil or avocado oil spray; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; Pinch of garlic powder; ½ whole lemon, zest freshly grated and cut into wedges; 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 to 4 slices sourdough bread, toasted; ½ to 2/3 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese); ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, you have to try this Roasted Broccoli Toast. It’s a delightful blend of perfectly roasted broccoli’s nutty flavor combined with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all atop crisp toasted sourdough. This recipe takes everyday ingredients and elevates them into something special that’s wonderful for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. Plus, the bright notes of lemon zest and the gentle heat from crushed red pepper flakes make every bite burst with personality.

Roasted Broccoli Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a pivotal role in delivering the charm of Roasted Broccoli Toast. From the freshness of broccoli florets to the zing of lemon zest, every element is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture.

Broccoli florets (2 cups): Choose fresh, firm florets for the best roasting results with a nutty and caramelized finish.
Olive oil or avocado oil spray: A light spray helps the broccoli crisp up without soaking it in oil.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance the natural taste of the broccoli without overpowering it.
Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and complements the seasoning perfectly.
Garlic powder (a pinch): Brings a whisper of savory depth that brightens the roasted broccoli’s flavor.
Whole lemon (½): Both zest and wedges add refreshing citrus notes and a lovely aroma.
Olive oil (1 to 2 tablespoons): Mixed with lemon zest to drizzle on for an extra burst of richness and brightness.
Sourdough bread (2 to 4 slices): Toasted to a golden crunch that provides the perfect foundation for all the toppings.
Ricotta cheese (½ to 2/3 cup): Or cottage cheese for a lighter option, whipped smooth for creamy indulgence.
Crushed red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon): A gentle heat to contrast the creamy ricotta and lemony broccoli.

How to Make Roasted Broccoli Toast

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 425 degrees F. This high temperature is essential for roasting broccoli to that beautiful golden brown that gives you both texture and flavor. Line a baking sheet with foil and spritz it lightly with nonstick spray to keep things from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Season the Broccoli

Spread your broccoli florets evenly on the prepared sheet. Give them a generous spray of olive or avocado oil to coat lightly. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. This trio of simple seasonings brings out the best in the broccoli, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Roast the broccoli for 20 to 25 minutes. The key here is to let it turn golden brown—not burnt—so those crispy, caramelized edges develop and make the broccoli irresistible. This step adds that roasted complexity and wonderful texture contrast that this Roasted Broccoli Toast is known for.

Step 4: Prepare the Flavorful Drizzle and Toast Bread

While the broccoli roasts, whisk together olive oil and freshly grated lemon zest in a bowl. This lemony oil drizzle is a brilliant addition that will brighten the dish when you finish it. Meanwhile, toast your sourdough slices until they’re golden and crunchy, ready to carry all the delicious toppings perfectly.

Step 5: Whip the Ricotta Cheese

Place ricotta cheese in a food processor and blend until smooth, creamy, and whipped. This fluffy ricotta will spread effortlessly, creating a luscious base for the roasted broccoli. If you prefer a lighter texture, cottage cheese works as an excellent alternative.

Step 6: Assemble Your Roasted Broccoli Toast

Spread as much whipped ricotta cheese as you desire onto each slice of toasted sourdough. Generously pile on the warm roasted broccoli right on top. Drizzle the lemon zest olive oil over the roasted veggies, then sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for that subtle kick. Add a wedge of lemon on the side for guests or yourself to spritz as you please.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Roasted Broccoli Toast is best enjoyed fresh while the broccoli is warm and the toast is still crisp. The contrast in temperatures and textures makes each bite a true delight.

How to Serve Roasted Broccoli Toast

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil cut a beautiful visual and flavor contrast when sprinkled on top. You can also add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a lovely crunch. For an extra tang, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with the lemon drizzle.

Side Dishes

This Roasted Broccoli Toast goes wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or a bowl of tomato soup. Light and fresh accompaniments help balance the richness of the ricotta and the roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn this into bite-size crostinis for entertaining. Or create a stacked version by layering multiple toasts with spreads and veggies for a tempting open-faced sandwich. You can also swap the sourdough for baguette slices for a different crunch and shape.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Roasted Broccoli Toast, store the roasted broccoli and ricotta separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the bread unbuttered and toasted separately to preserve its crispness.

Freezing

While the assembled toast doesn’t freeze well because of the fresh ingredients, you can freeze the roasted broccoli on its own for up to a month. Thaw it gently and reheat before assembling your toast.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat the broccoli in an oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. Refresh your toast by popping it back in the toaster or oven briefly to regain its crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of ricotta?

Absolutely! Cottage cheese works well for a lighter texture, or you can try cream cheese or goat cheese for a tangier flavor that still pairs beautifully with roasted broccoli.

Is it possible to roast frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Frozen broccoli can be used if fresh isn’t available, but it’s best to pat it very dry before roasting and expect a slightly softer texture once cooked.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the ricotta cheese with a plant-based creamy spread like cashew cream or a vegan ricotta alternative to keep this Roasted Broccoli Toast vegan-friendly and delicious.

How spicy is the crushed red pepper flakes? Can I omit them?

The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat to balance the creaminess and citrus. If you prefer no spice, feel free to leave them out without sacrificing flavor.

Can this toast be turned into a meal for kids?

Definitely! For kids, you might want to reduce or omit the pepper flakes and serve the lemon wedges on the side. You can also add a mild shredded cheese for added familiarity and comfort.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Roasted Broccoli Toast enough—it’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a nutritious snack, or a light dinner, this toast hits all the right notes with its blend of creamy, crunchy, and bright flavors. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Roasted Broccoli Toast Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 to 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious and nutritious Roasted Broccoli Toast featuring crispy roasted broccoli, creamy whipped ricotta, and a bright lemon zest olive oil drizzle, perfect for a healthy breakfast or light meal.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare Broccoli: Arrange the broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet. Spray them lightly with olive oil or your favorite cooking oil. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to enhance flavor.
Roast Broccoli: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the broccoli for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the florets are golden brown and slightly crispy, which intensifies their flavor.
Make Lemon Olive Oil: While broccoli is roasting, whisk together the olive oil and freshly grated lemon zest in a bowl to create a fragrant drizzle for the toast.
Toast Bread: Toast the sourdough slices until golden and crisp to serve as the base for the toppings.
Whip Ricotta: Place ricotta cheese in a food processor and blend until smooth, creamy, and whipped, ensuring a light and spreadable texture.
Assemble Toast: Spread a generous amount of whipped ricotta onto each slice of toasted bread. Top with the roasted broccoli florets and drizzle evenly with the lemon zest olive oil. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Serve: Serve the toasts immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra spritz of fresh citrus flavor.

Notes

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Use avocado oil spray if you prefer a milder oil flavor.
To make it vegan, consider using a plant-based ricotta alternative.
Serve as a light breakfast, snack, or appetizer for guests.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Appetizer
Method: Roasting, Toasting, Blending
Cuisine: American