Roasted Vegetables: A Guide to Healthy and Flavorful Sides

Roasted vegetables are a delicious and nutritious way to add flavor and variety to your meals. They're easy to prepare and can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to create different flavors.

Benefits of Roasted Vegetables

* High in nutrients: Roasted vegetables are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They're especially high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
* Low in calories: Roasted vegetables are a low-calorie food that can help you stay full and satisfied. They're a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
* Versatile: Roasted vegetables can be served as a side dish, a main course, or a snack. They can be added to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas.

How to Roast Vegetables

Roasting vegetables is a simple process. Here are the steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
2. Wash and cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
3. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they're tender and browned.

Seasoning Roasted Vegetables

There are endless ways to season roasted vegetables. Here are a few ideas:

* Dried herbs: Dried herbs such as basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary add a savory flavor to roasted vegetables.
* Fresh herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and chives add a bright, fresh flavor to roasted vegetables.
* Spices: Spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder add a warm, spicy flavor to roasted vegetables.
* Citrus: Citrus fruits such as lemon, lime, and orange add a bright, tangy flavor to roasted vegetables.

Roasted Vegetable Recipes

Here are a few roasted vegetable recipes to get you started:

* Roasted Carrots and Parsnips: Toss carrots and parsnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned.
* Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower: Toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned.
* Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned.
* Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned.

Roasted vegetables are a healthy and delicious way to add flavor and variety to your meals. They're easy to prepare and can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to create different flavors. So next time you're looking for a healthy side dish, try roasting some vegetables. You won't be disappointed.