Why? Because roasting is a surefire method for making perfectly-cooked (entire) meals in the oven with almost no prep work. When you use the right technique—high heat for plenty of time, an even dice, and don’t skimp on the olive oil—and quality ingredients, roasting recipes practically cook themselves. So go forth: preheat your range, pour yourself a glass of Pinot, and let these crowd-pleasing, family-friendly dishes do the talking. It’s time to outsource to the oven.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Pancetta and Lemon
We couldn’t give you a roundup of roasting recipes without a little Brussels-sprouts-and-fatty-ham number. This delicious side dish packs an umami-rich punch, thanks to a generous portion of pancetta (bacon’s BFF), which also helps the Brussels caramelize in the oven. The rich saltiness is perfectly balanced by a hit of tart-and-tangy lemon zest. Get the recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Pancetta and Lemon
Slow-Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken
This method for slow-roasting chicken takes the guesswork out of what can be an intimidating task: roasting a 3 ½-pound piece of meat. Cooking the chicken for 2 ½ to 3 hours at a relatively lower temperature (300°F) yields a meltingly tender, rotisserie-like finish. You may never fast-roast again. Get the Recipe: Slow-Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken
Roasted Eggplant With Miso and Sesame Seeds
In this Asian-inspired recipe, the eggplants roast at high heat, making the outside skin crispy and the inside succulent. The rich miso dressing gives it a salty umami flavor that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve alongside a piece of fish or meat for an easy and impressive meal. Get the recipe: Roasted Eggplant With Miso and Sesame Seeds
Roasted Pork Chops and Peaches
Pork chops and peaches? Trust us, you’ll be making this again and again. Peaches cooked with onion and white wine vinegar is an unexpectedly delicious addition to roasted pork chops. Get the recipe: Roasted Pork Chops and Peaches
Cheesy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
These sweet potatoes wedges are topped with two varieties of gooey cheese, which makes for a mouthwatering blend of sweet and savory. Best part? They cook in under 30 minutes and require just four ingredients. Get the recipe: Cheesy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Pork Chops With Mustard Sauce
Talk about a back-pocket lifesaver: This delicious pork dish requires only 15 minutes of hands-on time to prep, which makes it a great meal for both a regular weeknight or having people over. Get the recipe: Pork Chops With Mustard Sauce
Roasted Eggplant and Olive Pasta Salad
Who doesn’t love pasta salad? Salty olives and feta cheese combined with fresh tomatoes, chewy pasta, and tender cubes of roasted eggplant make this the perfect satisfying and healthy lunch or dinner. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, so make extra and eat well all week long. Get the recipe: Roasted Eggplant and Olive Pasta Salad
Sheet Pan Cod and Potatoes
In this delicious fish dish, all the ingredients can cook together, which makes for very little prep—and very few dishes to wash. You’ll start with creamy Yukon gold potatoes, and then add the cod, before stirring in chard leaves. Toss the whole dish with olive salsa for a flavorful finish. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Cod and Potatoes
