Sauteed Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
Introduction
Sauteed broccoli is a simple and flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and crunch of fresh broccoli. With a touch of garlic and a squeeze of lemon, this recipe elevates an everyday vegetable into a tasty addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli cut into 1½- to 2-inch-long florets
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 small garlic cloves sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the broccoli and water in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cover with a lid, and cook until the broccoli is bright green but still crisp, about 2 minutes.
- Step 2: Uncover, increase the heat to high, and cook until the water is fully evaporated, about 1 more minute.
- Step 3: Once all the water has cooked out, reduce to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then sauté, stirring frequently, until the broccoli is tender with some browned spots, 2-4 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice on top, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing step.
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter taste.
- Try adding toasted almonds or Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Storage
Store leftover sautéed broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain texture, or use the microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
While fresh broccoli is preferred for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How can I tell when the broccoli is cooked properly?
The broccoli should be bright green and still crisp after steaming with water. After sautéing, it will be tender with some browned spots but not mushy.
PrintSauteed Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
A simple and healthy sautéed broccoli recipe featuring fresh broccoli florets cooked to tender-crisp perfection with garlic and olive oil, then finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice for brightness. This quick stovetop dish is a flavorful way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 minutes
- Total Time: 11-12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh broccoli cut into 1½– to 2-inch-long florets
Other Ingredients
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 small garlic cloves, sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Steam the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets and ¼ cup water in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cover with a lid and cook until the broccoli turns bright green but remains crisp, approximately 2 minutes.
- Evaporate Water: Remove the lid, increase heat to high, and cook until the water fully evaporates, about 1 more minute.
- Sauté with Garlic and Seasonings: Lower the heat to medium-high, add olive oil, sliced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté the broccoli, stirring frequently, until tender with some browned spots develop, about 2 to 4 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove skillet from heat, drizzle with fresh lemon juice from the wedges, and serve immediately while warm and flavorful.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add red pepper flakes during the sauté step.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright finish.
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to retain some crispness and nutrients.
- If you prefer, substitute olive oil with avocado or grapeseed oil for different flavor profiles.
- This dish pairs well with grilled proteins or as a healthy side to any meal.
Keywords: sautéed broccoli, garlic broccoli, healthy broccoli recipe, quick broccoli side dish, lemon broccoli
