Roasting vegetables can be a simple, delicious and healthy way to add more veggies to your diet. And with just 45 calories per 85g serving, it's also a great low calorie meal option.

Roasting vegetables helps to bring out the natural flavors of each vegetable and can also help to retain its nutrients. For instance, roasting vegetables high in vitamin C, like red peppers or broccoli, can help to preserve the nutrient. Plus, roasted vegetables can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them perfect for meal prep.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about roasting vegetables, from the benefits to the best recipes to try.

Benefits of Roasting Vegetables

Roasting vegetables not only enhances the natural flavors of each vegetable, but also offers several health benefits. Some of the main benefits of roasting vegetables include: - Retaining nutrients such as vitamins and antioxidants - Increasing fiber content and aiding digestion

5 Delicious Roasting Vegetable Recipes

Roasted vegetables can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main dish when paired with protein. Here are five delicious roasting vegetable recipes to try: - Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Cheese - Garlic Roasted Carrots

Roasting Vegetables vs. Steaming or Boiling

Roasting vegetables is not the only way to cook them, but it offers a unique taste and texture compared to steaming or boiling. Here are some differences between roasting vegetables and steaming or boiling them: - Steaming or boiling can decrease the nutrient content, while roasting can help to retain nutrients. - Roasting offers a crispy, caramelized texture while steaming or boiling can result in a soft texture.

Roasting Vegetables for Meal Prep

Roasting vegetables is a perfect meal prep solution that can save time and ensure you have a healthy option for snacks, salads, and meals. Follow these tips for meal prepping roasted vegetables: - Roast a variety of vegetables to mix and match flavors and textures. - Store roasted vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days.

How to Choose the Right Vegetables for Roasting

Not all vegetables are equally suited to roasting. Here are some tips for selecting the best vegetables for roasting: - Choose vegetables that are similar in size and thickness to ensure even cooking. - Avoid using vegetables that contain a lot of water, such as zucchini or cucumbers, as they will become mushy when roasted.

How to Store Roasted Vegetables

Properly storing roasted vegetables can help maintain their flavor and texture. Here's how to store roasted vegetables: - Allow roasted vegetables to cool to room temperature before storing. - Store roasted vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Tips for Perfectly Roasting Vegetables

Roasting vegetables requires a little patience and practice to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some tips for roasting vegetables: - Toss vegetables in oil and spices for even coating. - Roast at a high temperature, around 400 degrees F, for even cooking and crispy texture.

The Science Behind Roasting Vegetables

Roasting vegetables causes a series of reactions that affect their flavor and texture. Some of the key reactions that occur during roasting include: - Caramelization: the process of sugars browning which creates a sweet, nutty flavor. - Maillard Reaction: a chemical reaction between amino acids and sugars that creates savory or umami flavors.

Roasting Vegetables for a Leaner Meal Option

If you're looking for a leaner meal option, roasting vegetables can provide a satisfying and nutritious option. Here are some ways to incorporate roasted vegetables into your meals: - Serve roasted vegetables with a lean source of protein, such as grilled chicken breast, for a balanced meal. - Swap out starchy sides, like potatoes or rice, for a roasted vegetable medley.

Vegetarian and Vegan Roasting Vegetable Ideas

Roasting vegetables can be a tasty and satisfying vegetarian or vegan meal option. Here are some vegetarian and vegan roasting vegetable ideas: - Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad - Roasted Cauliflower Steaks