recipes3 min read
Lemon Lavender Roasted Vegetables
2026-03-04
#side-dish#vegetarian#gluten-free#dairy-free#low-fodmap#gut-friendly
⏱️
Prep Time
15 min
🔥
Cook Time
30 min
🍽️
Servings
4
Nutrition per Serving
140
calories
3g
protein
22g
carbs
7g
fat
* Nutritional values are estimates
Ingredients
- ✓Assorted vegetables (choose 4-6 cups total):
- ✓ - Carrots, chopped
- ✓ - Parsnips, chopped
- ✓ - Sweet potatoes, cubed
- ✓ - Broccoli florets (1 cup max)
- ✓ - Fennel, sliced
- ✓ - Butternut squash, cubed
- ✓ - Bell peppers, chopped
- ✓ - Green onions (green parts only), chopped
- ✓2 tbsp olive oil (can use garlic-infused)
- ✓1 lemon (zest only, or 1 tbsp juice if tolerated)
- ✓1 tsp dried culinary lavender buds or 1/2 tsp lavender powder
- ✓3 tbsp fresh orange juice
- ✓Salt to taste (optional)
- ✓Garlic scapes, chopped (optional)
- ✓Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2Wash and chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- 3In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest (or juice), lavender, orange juice, salt, and garlic scapes if using.
- 4Place chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl and pour the lemon-lavender mixture over them.
- 5Toss until vegetables are evenly coated.
- 6Spread vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- 7For tender vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini): Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- 8For root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes): Roast for 40-50 minutes, turning every 20 minutes.
- 9Remove when vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- 10Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Recipe adapted from: Unknown - modified for GI issues
Elegant & Unique Flavor Combination
This recipe combines bright, tangy lemon with subtle, fragrant lavender creating a sophisticated twist on roasted vegetables. The orange juice adds natural sweetness while being gentler on sensitive stomachs than vinegar.
Choose the Right Lavender
Important tips for cooking with lavender:
- Culinary grade only: Use Lavandula angustifolia specifically for cooking
- Start small: A little lavender goes a long way—begin with less and add more to taste
- Dried buds or powder: Either works, but powder distributes more evenly
- Don't overdo it: Too much lavender can taste soapy or bitter
Low-FODMAP Vegetable Selection
Choose vegetables wisely for digestive comfort:
- Unlimited: Carrots (orange only), parsnips, potatoes
- Limited portions: Broccoli (3/4 cup max), sweet potato (1/2 cup), butternut squash (1/3 cup)
- Green parts only: Use green tops of scallions/green onions, not white bulbs
- Bell peppers: 1/3 cup max per serving
Why This Works for GI Issues
- Orange juice instead of vinegar: Naturally sweet and less acidic
- Lemon zest option: Flavor without the acidity of juice
- No onions or garlic: Optional garlic scapes or infused oil for flavor without FODMAPs
- Anti-inflammatory lavender: May aid digestion and reduce bloating
Perfect Pairings
This versatile side dish complements:
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled salmon or white fish
- Quinoa or brown rice bowls
- Simple proteins like baked tofu
Make It Your Own
- Add honey: Drizzle after roasting for extra sweetness
- Fresh herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or mint pair beautifully with lavender
- Seasonal variations: Use whatever vegetables are fresh and in season
- Skip the citrus: If very sensitive, omit lemon and use extra orange juice