Garlic Roasted Kohlrabi is a simple yet flavorful side dish that turns a lesser-known vegetable into a crispy, golden, and irresistible delight. Often compared to a milder version of turnips or broccoli stems, kohlrabi is low in calories and high in fiber and nutrients. This recipe brings out its natural sweetness through roasting, while garlic adds a savory punch.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

3 medium kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced kohlrabi, olive oil, and minced garlic. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Toss everything well until the kohlrabi is evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
Spread the kohlrabi pieces out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even roasting.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the kohlrabi is golden brown on the edges and tender in the center.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 90 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 3 g
Sodium: 120 mg
Potassium: 320 mg
Vitamin C: 70% of Daily Value
Calcium: 4% of Daily Value
Iron: 2% of Daily Value

Health Benefits of Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is loaded with health benefits that make it a great addition to any diet. It’s low in calories but high in dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Kohlrabi is also a rich source of vitamin C, supporting immune health and skin integrity. It provides potassium for heart and muscle function, and contains compounds known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Roasting kohlrabi preserves most of its nutrients, making it not only tasty but also a nutritious side option.

Garlic: More Than Just Flavor

Garlic adds a deep, savory note to the recipe, but it also brings powerful health benefits. It’s well-known for its natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, as well as for potentially reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. When roasted, garlic becomes mellow, slightly sweet, and less pungent, perfectly complementing the mild flavor of kohlrabi. In this dish, garlic acts as both a flavor enhancer and a functional ingredient, making the side dish both comforting and health-boosting.

Achieving the Perfect Roast Texture

The key to nailing this garlic roasted kohlrabi recipe lies in the roasting technique. Cutting the kohlrabi into evenly sized cubes ensures uniform cooking. Roasting at 400°F (200°C) allows the vegetable to caramelize on the outside while turning soft and tender inside. Spacing the pieces out on the pan avoids steaming and guarantees a lightly crisp edge. Proper roasting not only enhances flavor through caramelization but also concentrates kohlrabi’s natural sweetness, balancing beautifully with the garlicky undertones.

Easy Customizations and Flavor Variations

This recipe’s simplicity invites endless customization. You can add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before the final few minutes of roasting for a cheesy, crispy finish. For a spicier kick, try dusting the kohlrabi with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or red chili flakes. A splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting can brighten the flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley also work wonderfully when tossed in just before serving. The base recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing it to adapt to many flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic roasted kohlrabi works as a complementary side to a wide range of main dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or steak, and also fits nicely into vegetarian plates alongside legumes, tofu, or grain bowls. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa, rice, or couscous with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce. For brunch or lunch, mix it into a warm salad or serve it atop toast with a poached egg for a gourmet twist on breakfast.

Perfect Pairings with Drinks

This side dish pairs well with light and medium-bodied wines, especially whites like Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling, which balance the garlic and highlight the kohlrabi’s sweetness. For beer lovers, a crisp lager or pale ale complements the roasted flavor without overpowering the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water infused with lemon or a light herbal tea like mint or chamomile makes a refreshing accompaniment that won’t overshadow the dish’s delicate yet savory profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover roasted kohlrabi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, reheating is simple. To maintain crispness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture, as it tends to soften the edges. You can also enjoy cold leftovers tossed into salads or grain bowls for a quick, healthy meal.

Meal Prep and Batch Cooking

This recipe is great for meal prep and batch cooking. Since it uses only a few ingredients and minimal steps, it’s easy to make in large quantities. Roasting multiple trays at once allows you to prepare enough for several meals. Garlic roasted kohlrabi holds up well when stored properly and can be repurposed in various ways throughout the week—add it to lunch wraps, stir it into scrambled eggs, or blend it with broth for a rustic vegetable soup. Its flexibility makes it ideal for efficient, healthy meal planning.

Kid-Friendly and Beginner-Approved

Garlic roasted kohlrabi is a fantastic way to introduce kids or picky eaters to lesser-known vegetables. Its mild flavor and soft texture make it approachable, especially when roasted to a golden crisp. Since it’s not bitter like some cruciferous veggies, kids are more likely to enjoy it, especially when served with dips like ketchup, ranch, or hummus. It’s also an excellent recipe for beginner cooks looking to expand their vegetable repertoire with minimal risk and maximum flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Roasted Kohlrabi is the perfect example of how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods can produce a dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. It elevates an underused vegetable into a crave-worthy side that suits a variety of meals and dietary preferences. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight side, prepping meals ahead, or impressing guests with a unique vegetable dish, this recipe delivers every time.

Pin1

1 Shares