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Perfect Steamed Broccoli with Quick Garlic Butter Drizzle

Close-up of vibrant green steamed broccoli florets tossed with garlic and pepper in a white bowl.
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Learn the simple technique for steaming broccoli to achieve a bright green, tender-crisp texture. This recipe includes a fast garlic butter drizzle for a flavorful, healthy side dish ready in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of broccoli (about 1 pound)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broccoli: Wash the head of broccoli. Cut the crown into uniform, bite-sized florets. You can peel and slice the thick stem if you prefer to cook and eat it.
  2. Set up your steamer: Pour 1/2 cup of water into a saucepan. Place a steamer basket inside the saucepan, making sure the water level is below the basket.
  3. Steam the broccoli: Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, place the broccoli florets into the steamer basket. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid.
  4. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes. Check the broccoli after 4 minutes; you want it tender-crisp and bright green. If it is not done, cover and steam for 1 to 2 more minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
  5. Prepare the drizzle: While the broccoli steams, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  6. Season: Remove the broccoli from the steamer and place it in a serving bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the hot broccoli. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Serve immediately as a quick side dish for steak or chicken.

Notes

  • For a Parmesan finish, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese over the hot broccoli before serving.
  • If you do not have a steamer basket, you can use a metal colander placed over the boiling water, ensuring the bottom of the colander does not touch the water.
  • To achieve the best color, plunge the cooked broccoli into ice water for 30 seconds immediately after steaming, then drain well before adding the butter.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://littlekitchendiary.com/steamed-broccoli-garlic-butter-quick-side/