Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things tidy.
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform pieces so they roast evenly and develop a beautiful caramelization.
Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves—this helps release their aroma during roasting and ensures they cook evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with the olive oil, making sure each piece gets a glossy coating that promotes browning.
Add the chopped garlic, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Spread the broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, giving each piece enough space to caramelize nicely.
Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to promote even browning and crispy edges.
Keep an eye out for edges turning deep golden brown and fragrant garlic filling the air—this signals that the broccoli is tender yet crispy.
Remove the tray from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot broccoli, instantly brightening the smoky flavors.
Give everything a gentle toss to distribute the lemon and seasonings evenly, then serve immediately while the edges are crispy and the aroma is irresistible.
