Roasted Vegetables

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
2. 2
   Chop the vegetables or roast them whole.
3. 3
   The larger the pieces, the longer it will take to roast.
4. 4
   Toss the vegetables with olive oil, fresh herbs, and generously season with salt and pepper.
5. 5
   Place on a prepared baking sheet, cast iron pan, or a roasting pan.
6. 6
   Keep in mind that the harder the vegetable and larger the size, the longer it will take to roast.
7. 7
   Whole beets can take an hour or more, while asparagus will roast up in about 10 minutes.
8. 8
   Test for doneness by piercing the vegetable with a knife.
9. 9
   Serve the roasted vegetables with toasted nuts, bread crumbs, or grated cheese on top.
10. 10
    Roasted Vegetable Variations:
11. 11
    Slow-Roasted Tomatoes: Quarter 3 to 4 pounds ripe tomatoes brushed with olive oil, 2 teaspoons sugar, and generously seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
12. 12
    Roast the tomatoes cut side up on a large baking sheet.
13. 13
    Roast for 2 hours until the tomatoes are beginning to brown and maintain their shape when moved.
14. 14
    Cool.
15. 15
    Make into homemade tomato sauce by chopping the tomatoes and heating in a saucepan with chicken stock, fresh herbs, and just a bit of fresh cream.
16. 16
    Roasted Garlic: Peel the paper exterior off of garlic heads.
17. 17
    Set the garlic heads on top of aluminum foil square.
18. 18
    Brush the garlic head with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and top with any desired fresh herbs.
19. 19
    Fold the sides up crimping tightly.
20. 20
    Place the packet on a baking sheet and roast at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes.
21. 21
    Cook's Note: It is best to use the roasted garlic while still warm.