I made some simple Roasted Summer Vegetables as a side dish this week and I debated whether or not to give them their own recipe post. Roasted vegetables are so basic that it’s almost not a recipe, more of a technique, but I had to remind myself that every time I post one of these very basic “recipes” there are at least a few people that have that “Aha!” moment, and that makes it totally worth it. So, if you’re an experienced cook, you’ve probably done this a million times. If you’re still getting your feet wet in the kitchen, prepare yourself for this simple technique, which will likely be a game-changer.
Why I Love Roasted Vegetables
Roasting is by far my favorite way to prepare vegetables. It takes very little effort, and although they do take a little time in the oven, it’s hands-off time that can be used to prepare the rest of your meal. The flavor of roasted vegetables is unbelievable. If you’re one that usually doesn’t like vegetables because they’re too bitter, definitely give roasted vegetables a try. Roasting in the dry heat concentrates and caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables, and it gives the vegetables a nice smoky edge. And best of all, roasted vegetables are extremely versatile.
Tips for Roasting Vegetables
Here are some tips for roasting vegetables:
- The time it takes to roast your vegetables will depend on a few factors: the size of the vegetable pieces, how crowded they are on the baking sheet, the water content of the vegetable varieties you’re using, and the nuances of your oven. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll roast.
- If your vegetables are too crowded on the baking sheet, the steam will get trapped and the vegetables will soften and stew, rather than caramelize and roast. So, if you’re using a lot of vegetables, make sure to split them between two baking sheets.
- Stir the vegetables occasionally, about every 15-20 minutes. This will help them roast more evenly and allow you to check their progress and determine how much longer they’ll need in the oven.
- Don’t skimp too much on the oil. If there isn’t enough oil the vegetables will simply dry out and not have that wonderfully rich flavor.
- Experiment with seasoning. I kept my seasoning light for this batch, with just some basil, salt, and pepper, but you can experiment with your herbs and spices to match the meal that you’re serving.
- I like to add a little salt before roasting and then another small pinch after roasting so you get nice little pops of surface salt with each bite.
How to Use Roasted Vegetables
I served my roasted vegetables just as they were as a side dish, but there are so many other things you could do with them. Put them between some hearty bread or a tortilla with some cheese for an awesome sandwich or wrap, add them to your pizza or flatbread for more color, flavor, and nutrition, combine them with pasta and a balsamic vinaigrette for an incredible pasta salad, or add them to some pasta, red sauce, and cheese, and make an incredible baked pasta.
Roasted Summer Vegetables
Servings 4Ingredients
- 2 zucchini (about 1.25 lbs.) ($1.22)
- 1 yellow squash (about 0.5 lbs.) ($0.48)
- 1 small red onion (about 0.5 lbs.) ($0.70)
- 1 red bell pepper ($1.79)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil ($0.26)
- 1 tsp dried basil ($0.10)
- salt and pepper to taste ($0.05)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) ($0.25)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Wash and chop the vegetables into approximately 1-inch pieces.
- Spread the vegetables out over a large baking sheet (or two, if needed) so they’re in a single layer and not piled on top of one another. Drizzle the olive oil over top, then add the basil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables until they’re evenly coated in oil and spices.
- Roast the vegetables for 30-40 minutes, stirring once or twice (every 15-20 minutes or so), until the vegetables are soft and browned on the edges. Taste the vegetables and add another pinch of salt if desired. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over top just before serving.
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Notes
Nutrition
How to Roast Vegetables – Step by Step Photos
This time around, I used two zucchini, one yellow squash, one red bell pepper, and one red onion. This technique is very flexible and you can use just one or two types of vegetables, or even more if you like. Sometimes I like to use eggplant, but they tend to be quite large, so when I do I’ll use fewer other vegetables. I also like roasting grape tomatoes. Whatever you roast, it’s nice to have a variety of color.
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Wash and chop the vegetables into 1-inch pieces. Spread the chopped vegetables out over a baking sheet, or two if needed, so they are in a single layer and not piled on top of one another. Drizzle with 2 Tbsp olive oil, then add 1 tsp dried basil and a pinch or two of salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables until they’re completely coated in oil and spices.
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and roast the vegetables for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re soft and have some nice browning on the edges. Make sure to stir the vegetables every 15-20 minutes to keep them roasting at an even pace and to check them for doneness. I like to add an extra pinch of salt after roasting, so you get some salt sitting on the surface to give each bite a little pop. I also like to sprinkle with a little fresh parsley for freshness and to add a pop of color, but that’s optional.
Eat those gorgeous Roasted Summer Vegetables as-is, or add them to your favorite recipe! 🤤
Thank you for not assuming we would be bored by this or whatever. Many of us are still learning to cook and don’t know how to do this as second nature. I appreciate basic technique recipes such as this. :0)
EXACTLY!…. these are THE things I need and that i want to be learning of
Beth, I roasted veggies to serve with quunoa and your Greek Marinated Chicken for a group of friends and family. I roasted zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, onions, and mushrooms, then put out quinoa, fresh diced onions, cucumers, halved grape tomatoes, feta cheese, and kalamata olives. Everyone made their own quinoa salad with veggies and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. What a delicious side dish with your chicken!!!
We fixed this last night for our supper to go along some homemade Reuben sandwiches. I did not put the onion because I did not think to. Id id put 2 small potatoes cut into small chunks. It was delicious. We are going to fix it again tonight.
I’ve been roasting veggies for years and have learned a thing or two along the way. I usually prep my veggies ahead of time and marinate in a plastic bag or container until ready to roast. Like Heather, I use a bit more heat and a shorter oven time, usually 425 and 30 min. If you spray your cooking pan before adding the veggies, you can use a bit less oil and they won’t stick–ever! I use about that 2 T you recommend for that 4-6 cups you have included in your recipe and for the same reason–less oil, less flavor. I always add whole peeled garlic cloves to my mix for a mellow flavor–chopped garlic will scorch–and my favorite herb is fresh rosemary. Thanks for reminding me that I need to roast some veggies to go with the chicken I’ve planned for dinner!
I’m making this right now, to add some extra flavor and nutrition to a baked pasta dish. Thank you for the idea to add it to other dishes. I’m bringing dinner to a friend that’s recovering from surgery and I’m so pleased to know there’s some extra vitamins in there for him! :)
Beth, I cook a lot of meals for folks at my church and I think 99% of the recipes I use come from Budget Bytes because everything is delicious and cost effective. I’m so thankful for you! You play a part in helping us bless families in need. Thank you!!
Thank you, Tara!! That makes me so happy to hear. ❤️
I love the mix of colors. Definitely trying this making this tomorrow for a pasta salad
Alexis
http://simplehealthstyle.com
This week my meal prep for work lunches is roasted vegetables and cous-cous with olives and crumbled feta.
I roasted my veggies – I always include lots of sweet grape tomatoes for the juice – and mix in warm cous-cous and when its cool add mixed olives (leftovers from a party) and top with crumbled feta. I find that if I use a little more olive oil, it mixes with the juices to form a sort of dressing which the cous-cous sucks up.
Steaming all the vegetables for 5 minutes beforehand infuses them with moisture, starts the cooking process and allows you to use much less oil without them drying out, if you want a healthier option.
It always surprises we when I see roasted vegetable recipes recommending such long cooking times. We usually roast at 450 for just 20 minutes (starting with broccoli, peppers, onion and cauliflower and adding zucchini and mushrooms halfway through if we have them). That way the veggies still have a bit of firmness instead of being totally mushy. I guess it’s all in how “done” you like your vegetables!
We love you, Beth!
I am going to try this tonight!
I appreciate these simple recipes! Sometimes when looking things up I just want ideas, not complex stuff. In fact, the simpler the recipe the better for me! I honestly never thought of roasting squash in the oven. I am guilty of cooking 95% of things in the pan. Trying to get more into oven cooking because I love being able to just pop it in and not having to sit there and watch it.
Thank you! I’m glad these simple techniques are helpful to somebody. :D And roasted squash is the best! You’re going to love it!
Ha, I just made kabobs out of all the veggies on this recipe tonight and grilled them. Plus mushrooms!
Thank you for this recipe! I’m a longtime (mostly) lurker on your site, and roasted vegetables is one of those recipes that I’ve never been able to get right. Based on your comments, I think I haven’t been using enough oil to keep my vegetables moist while they’re cooking.
I can’t wait to try again this summer. Thanks again. :)
A vegetarian friend taught me to make a great salad with vegetables roasted this way. When the veggies have cooled, dress them with a tablespoon or two of good balsamic vinegar, and add some cubed or crumbled cheese (goat, blue, feta or mozzarella are all good) and some nuts or seeds (pine nuts or slivered almonds are my favorites). Serve with couscous or quinoa for a balanced meal.
YUM!!