Roasted Vegetables: The Complete Guide

Looking for an easy way to intensify the flavor of nearly every vegetable you prepare? There are lots of ways to cook your veggies – boiled, steamed, sautéed – but only one method provides results that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside and so delicious that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds. Roasting vegetables is an easy way to bring out the sweetness and accentuate flavors in a unique way that no other cooking method parallels. Whether trying to get more vegetables onto your plate or seeking tips on perfecting your methods, we’ll teach you how to roast vegetables like an expert, including which veggies work best, how to prep them and for how long to cook them. Plus, we’re sharing a few of our favorite roasted vegetable recipes to help get you started.

What are Good Veggies to Roast?

If you’re wondering if you can roast a certain vegetable, the answer is probably yes. Roasting, which simply refers to food that’s cooked with dry radiant heat, such as in the oven or over a fire, does wonders to a wide range of foods. Root vegetables, like potatoes and carrots, are popular candidates for this cooking method, as are crucifers, like broccoli and cauliflower. Even tomatoes release an exceptionally sweet flavor when roasted.

How Do You Roast Vegetables?

One of the best things about oven roasted veggies, in addition to the wonderful flavor, is how straightforward and simple the process is! Still, here are some tips for readying your veggies for the oven:

• Cut vegetables into pieces that are uniform in size: Try to cut all of your vegetables into pieces of similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Toss your vegetables in oil: Toss the cut veggies in oil until they’re covered in a glossy coating, typically a tablespoon or two. Not only does the oil help give the veggies that mouthwatering crispy texture, but it also boosts the flavor.
• Season your vegetables: Keep it simple with salt and pepper or mix the oiled veggies with your favorite herbs and spices for additional aromatics and flavor.
• Spread the vegetables out to cook: When arranging the veggies on your baking pan, give them lots of space so the hot air can circulate and cook all sides evenly. If needed, you can use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
• Roast the vegetables until tender: You know your roasted veggies are done when they’re tender enough to be pierced with a fork and they have some charred bits around the edges. Softer veggies will finish quicker than harder ones, so pay attention when cooking multiple varieties on the same sheet pan.

How Long Does Roasting Vegetables Take?

Some veggies roast best with a long, slow cooking process while others can be whipped up quicker than it takes for you to clean off the table before dinner. Here’s a simple guide to help you determine how long your veggies should cook when your oven is set to 425°F:

• Zucchini, bell peppers & summer squash: 10 to 20 minutes
• Green beans, asparagus & other thin vegetables: 10 to 20 minutes
• Tomatoes: 15 to 20 minutes
• Broccoli, cauliflower & Brussels sprouts: 15 to 25 minutes
• Acorn squash, butternut squash & other winter squash: 20 to 60 minutes
• Potatoes, carrots, beets & other root vegetables: 30 to 45 minutes
• Onions: 30 to 45 minutes

If you’re not sure how long a certain vegetable will take to roast, check on it in 15-minute intervals and remove it from the oven when the pieces are toasty and charred around the edges.

Easy Roasted Vegetable Recipes

When you’re ready, you can add lots of flavor, colors and nutrients to your table with one of these easy and delicious roasted vegetable recipes.

Keep the inspiration going with more hand-picked recipes below, or head to our full collection roasted vegetable recipes. Remember to check out our digital coupons and weekly ad for deals on everyday favorites.