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Reboot Your Roast

A Sunday roast is a British classic—but why stop at meat and potatoes? With super simple veggie side hacks and tasty recipes from top chefs, it’s never been easier to pack in more veg. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color, new flavors, or just sneak in extra goodness, these ideas will help you reboot your roast with minimal effort and maximum taste!

Why are Roasts so great?

A roast isn’t just a meal—it’s an opportunity to gather as a family. It brings everyone together around the table, encourages kids to try new foods, and makes mealtimes feel special. Plus, with a few simple veg side hacks, it’s an easy way to boost your family’s veggie intake. Whether it’s crispy roasted carrots, garlicky greens, or a zingy slaw, a rebooted roast is the perfect way to mix things up while keeping things delicious!

And the best part? Small changes add up. If your roast usually includes just one veg, try adding a second, or swap a classic side for a new twist. Even a couple of extra spoonfuls can make a difference. With our effortless, veg-packed recipes, it’s never been easier to reboot your roast—one simple side at a time!

simple sides

There is nothing wrong with cooking some frozen peas, stirring through a little butter and popping it on the table! But if you need some inspiration beyond the standard peas and carrots, try some of these to reboot your roast.

Garlic butter green beans

Sauté defrosted (or frozen) green beans in olive oil until slightly browned. Add a splash of water, cover, and steam until tender. Finish with butter, garlic, and optional toasted almonds or lemon zest for extra flavor.

Roasted roots

Most people love roast potatoes, but they are not the only thing you can roast! Toss chopped root veg with oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden and tender. Want extra flavor? Try harissa, pesto, balsamic, fresh herbs, or crumbled cheese. Short on time? Use pre-prepped frozen root veg for a speedy version.

Roasted squash

Halve a butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and roast alongside your main until soft and sweet. Or, toss cubed squash in oil and salt, then roast until golden. Short on time? Use pre-prepped fresh or frozen squash—or swap for sweet potato or pumpkin!

Buttery cabbage

Sauté shredded cabbage in butter with a little stock, cover, and cook gently until soft and buttery, adding more stock as needed. Simple, delicious, and fuss-free!

Easy frozen veggies

Steam or microwave mixed veg, roast a bag of Mediterranean veggies with olive oil or pesto, or simply serve buttery corn on the cob. For more frozen veg hacks, check out top tips from Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and nutritionist Charlotte Radcliffe here!

Cauli cheese

Indulgent and delicious. Grab a bag of frozen cauliflower cheese and cook according to the packet instructions or if you are feeling more ambitious, try making your own – we love this one…

engaging kids

Get Kids Involved!

A Sunday roast is more than just a meal—it’s a time for family to come together, share good food, and make memories. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get kids engaged in the kitchen in a fun and meaningful way. When children take part in preparing and serving the meal, they feel a sense of ownership and pride—making them far more likely to enjoy the veggies on their plate!
Here are some simple ways to involve kids in rebooting your roast:

  • Little kitchen helpers: Give kids a small but important role, like washing veggies, pressing buttons on the microwave, pouring veg into a pan, stirring, weighing, or reading instructions on frozen veg packs.
  • Creative serving: Let them take charge of spooning veggies into serving bowls or adding tasty finishing touches like fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, crumbled cheese, citrus juice, or a swirl of pesto.
  • DIY menus: Encourage them to create a fun menu with drawings or playful names for the veg dishes—think “Level-Up Leeks” or “Super Sidekick Sprouts”!
  • Table setting fun: Have them lay the table and add a special touch, like a colourful centrepiece inspired by the veg on the menu or personalised place cards with artwork showing off the veg being served.

By making vegetables part of the fun, you’re setting the stage for a lifetime of veggie loving habits—one delicious roast at a time!

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