We have had several "aha" moments in our REAL food journey.

One of the most game-changing moments was learning how to roast vegetables.

And, it is not just us -- we have seen it first-hand with our family, and in our virtual and in-person programs.  We have literally witnessed lives transformed when people discover how amazing vegetables taste when roasted in the oven!

We have heard comments like...

"I am in my 60's and have gone my entire life and never bought a butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, or even a sweet potato.  Now I am roasting them and absolutely love it -- you have changed my life!"  

And...

"I had no idea vegetables could taste like that!"

Sure, you can sauté or steam veggies (which are great), but there is just something about roasting them that takes their flavor to an entirely different level.  Golden brown, crispy edges and mind-blowing flavor that comes from their natural sugars caramelizing on the baking sheet...INSANELY DELICIOUS!

Along the way, as we were beginning to master roasting vegetables, we were learning that olive oil, salt and pepper were the secret to success -- and, they 100% are!  But, as our confidence grew, we tried mixing it up with other seasonings and discovered something magical with 4 simple dried seasonings, which is now our "GO-TO" seasoning mix.  We feel so strongly about the flavor power of these seasonings, we want to make sure you know about it!

How can you remember this seasoning combination?

It is ridiculously easy...just remember "G...O...T...O" or "GO-TO" -- that's all you need to know!  Then, you will know you simply need to add: Garlic, Onion, Thyme and Oregano!  (Pretty clever, huh?!)

How much?

Here is where personal preference comes into play.  For roasting, we typically use 1-2 Tbsp of olive oil or avocado oil, 1/4 tsp of salt and pepper, and then 1 tsp of each of the "GO-TO" seasonings for every 5-8 cups of chopped veggies.

Guaranteed to make a wide variety (dare we say all vegetables) taste incredibly good!

Then, if you decide that you enjoy this seasoning mix as much as we do, we highly recommend mixing up a big batch in a mason jar, and then adding 1-2 Tbsp to your veggies and you are good to go!  And, we really like to use granulated garlic and granulated onion (vs. the powdered versions) because we feel like the texture and flavor are better with roasted vegetables.

What else can you do with this magical seasoning mix?

Believe it or not, more than just roasted veggies!

• Try this mixture in the Sausage and Summer Veggie Foil Packet
• Add pizzazz to sautéed or steamed veggies
• Season scrambled eggs
• Ideal seasoning for your favorite seafood
• This seasoning can also be your GOTO for grilling -- vegetables, chicken, fish, or even your favorite cuts of meat!

Just in case you need a roasting vegetable 101 refresher:

Feel free to check out this video or our coaching tip!  Roasting veggies really is simple:

1. Cut vegetables into bite-size pieces (5-8 cups) and place in a large bowl.
2. Add 1-2 Tbsp of olive oil or avocado oil, 1/4 tsp of salt and pepper (and the GO*TO seasoning mix if desired!)
3. Roast in the oven at 400 degrees for 15 to 30 minutes (depending on the vegetable you are roasting).

A few other reminders about roasting veggies:

• Cut vegetables into uniform size pieces so they cook evenly.  Remember that a larger surface area will result in more caramelization and increased flavor.  Smaller pieces tend to have more caramelization than larger ones.
• Don't overcrowd the pan!  You want the vegetables to caramelize, not steam.
• Flip the veggies at least once during roasting so they cook evenly on all sides.

If you ever wonder:

"what is the one thing to do to get my family to eat more vegetables?"

OR

"what in the world do I do with (insert vegetable name here)?"

Our response is always "Roast them!"

And, we guarantee if you try this "GO-TO" seasoning mix you will hear things like "WOW!  I never knew I liked sweet potatoes (or Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower, or mushrooms, or okra, or butternut squash)!"  You know we could go on, and on!

Do you have a favorite seasoning combination?  We would love to know!

When you don't know what seasonings to use for something, try this and please share your stories with us!