Print

Best Steamed Broccoli

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A quick, healthy, and versatile side dish made with tender steamed broccoli. Bright green, nutrient-rich, and ready in just 15 minutes, it pairs well with almost any meal.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2–4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1 bunch broccoli

Olive oil, butter, or mayonnaise (use olive oil if vegan)

Freshly ground black pepper

Lemon zest or juice, balsamic vinegar, or seasoned rice vinegar

Toasted almonds (optional)

Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the crowns away from the large stems of the broccoli. Break the crown into bite-sized florets and rinse thoroughly.
  2. Peel the thick outer skin of the stems, then slice or quarter them lengthwise.
  3. Place 3/4 to 1 inch of water in a saucepan with a steamer basket and bring to a boil. (If you don’t have a steamer, place the broccoli directly into 1 inch of boiling water.)
  4. Add the broccoli to the steamer, cover, and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until the broccoli is just tender and can be pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking.
  5. Remove from heat, transfer to a serving dish, and dress with your choice of toppings such as olive oil, butter, lemon juice, vinegar, nuts, or seeds.

Notes

  • Toss with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Drizzle with garlic butter for richness.
  • Mix with soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.
  • Pair with hummus or tahini as a snack option.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of water.

Nutrition