Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli crowns
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt or sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
- Optional: sesame seeds
Instructions
- Wash the broccoli crowns thoroughly and pat them completely dry.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, keeping the pieces similar in size for even cooking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the broccoli florets and arrange them in a single layer as much as possible.
- Cook without stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Stir the broccoli and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Carefully pour the water into the skillet and immediately cover with a lid.
- Steam the broccoli for 2 minutes until crisp-tender and bright green.
- Remove the lid and add the minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Turn off the heat and season with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately with optional toppings if desired.
Notes
- Dry broccoli thoroughly before cooking for the best browning.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet or the broccoli may steam instead of sauté.
- Fresh broccoli works best for crisp texture and caramelization.
- Add Parmesan cheese or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
- This recipe is naturally vegan if optional cheese is omitted.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
