Your family will be begging to eat their greens with this Easy Sautéed Broccoli Recipe, which packs an amazing punch of color, flavor, and nutrition.
I admit to sitting at the table long after dinner, staring at a plate of broccoli. I had to take five bites before I could hit the neighborhood for a night of capturing the flag and/or lightning bugs. I wish, desperately, that my mom had used this recipe instead of the boiling method that stripped all the flavor and fun out of my evenings.
Since I found this recipe, my kids no longer shudder when I say they have to eat their broccoli. It’s actually become one of our family staples—and the one time when I can brag to my mom about how my children LOVE broccoli (of course they do, she says. Her grandchildren can do no wrong).
This broccoli can dress up or down, just like my Mom jeans. Sometimes, they’re the arm candy for a succulent steak or sauteed shrimp. Other times, they’re the nutritious balance to a thrown-together dinner of burgers or grilled cheese. Either way, I like that I have some bragging rights.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Broccoli is basically all of the Avenger superheroes rolled into one tiny, edible bush-looking vegetable. It’s loaded with Vitamin C and fiber and is said to help reduce the risk of cancer. Plus, it’s got almost negative calories (not really, but close: only about 35 calories a cup, depending on how they’re prepared). If that’s not enough to send you straight to the produce section, then how bout this: this recipe is super quick and easy. You’ll feel good about feeling good.
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 TBSP olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 TBSP lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- 3 TBSP flaked almonds (optional)
How to Make – The Steps
Step 1: Heat a nonstick pan to medium and add in the olive oil.
Step 2: Add the garlic into the pan and saute for a few minutes, then add the broccoli in and saute for 6-8 minutes until the broccoli is tender but not too soft.
Step 3: Squeeze lemon juice over the broccoli and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Top with the flaked almonds and serve.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Sauteed Broccoli
- Look for fresh, firm broccoli without any yellow or brown spots.
- Add the garlic to a heated pan, but don’t let it scorch.
- The broccoli should stay a vibrant green color and have a slight crunch.
- Wait to add the salt and pepper until after sautéing.
FAQs
While fresh is best, frozen will work just fine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Absolutely! Why stick to just one? Veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots work well in this dish, but be sure to check the cooking time for each.
Obviously. Make sure your chosen protein (you can use tofu, chicken, shrimp, anything you like) is cooked first, then add it to the pan when cooking the broccoli.
You can experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, or even a hint of fresh mint! The sky’s the limit!
Almonds add a delicious crunch, but they’re totally optional. You can forgo them altogether, or get your crunch from another source, such as sunflower seeds or toasted breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Sautéed Broccoli is great with main meat entrees, but it’s also a hearty companion for your favorite pasta dish such as Boursin Cheese Pasta. Just before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty twist.
Make Ahead and How to Store
This dish is a lifesaver for meal planning. Make it ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat in the microwave or a sizzling pan until they’re hot.
Sauteed Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli cut into florets
- 1 TBSP olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic crushed
- 1 TBSP lemon juice
- salt and Pepper
- 3 TBSP flaked almonds optional
Instructions
- Heat a nonstick pan to medium and add in the olive oil.
- Add the garlic into the pan and sauté for a few minutes, then add the broccoli in and sauté for 6-8 minutes until the broccoli is tender but not too soft.
- Squeeze over the lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Top with the flaked almonds and serve.
