Steamed broccoli is an easy, healthy side dish that turns out bright green and crisp tender every time. Here's how to cook broccoli...the best way!
Image: Steamed broccoli
Are you ready for a quick and delicious side dish recipe? Steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also incredibly tasty. In just 5 minutes, you can have a dish that's bursting with flavor. Don't be fooled by its simplicity - a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt can transform this humble veggie into something truly stellar. Alex and I are always on the lookout for easy side dishes, and this one has become a staple in our “pair with everything” repertoire. Let me show you how to cook broccoli and season it to complement any meal.
How to Cook Broccoli (A Tutorial)
The best way to cook this nutritious veggie is by steaming it! Steamed broccoli is super quick and simple. The key is to not overcook it. Steaming it for 3 to 5 minutes will result in broccoli that is bright green and tender-crisp. Any longer than that, and it will lose its vibrant color and become mushy. Here are our tips on how to cook broccoli using a steamer basket.
Step 1: Chop the Broccoli into Florets
Start by chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Try to make them as uniform as possible, as thicker pieces and larger florets will take slightly longer to cook than smaller ones.
Image: Florets of broccoli
Step 2: Bring Water to a Boil
The first rule of steaming vegetables is to bring the water to a boil first. Don't throw everything into the steamer and then wait for the water to boil. Boil the water in a saucepan or pot before adding the veggies. If you're using a steamer basket without a handle, add it to the pot now. The water surface should be right under the basket.
Image: How to cook broccoli
Step 3: Add the Broccoli, Cover, and Steam
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the broccoli to the steamer basket (if it has a handle) and cover the pot with a lid. Steam the broccoli for 3 to 4 minutes until it is just tender. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness and age of the broccoli. We prefer our broccoli on the crisp side, but if you prefer it more tender, cook it for an additional minute. Be cautious not to overcook it, as it will lose its color and texture.
Image: Steamer basket
Step 4: Drain and Season
Carefully remove the steamed broccoli from the pot and transfer it to a bowl. Season it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of kosher salt, feta cheese (optional), and some red onions. Soaking the red onions in water for a few minutes before adding them helps reduce their pungency. You can do this while the broccoli is cooking.
Image: Easy side dish recipe
How to Season Steamed Broccoli
Once your broccoli is perfectly steamed, there are countless ways to season it. In this recipe, we've added red onions for a little additional flavor and color contrast. We've kept it simple by mixing the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper. However, adding feta cheese crumbles takes it from good to great. If you prefer, there are many other seasoning options you can explore:
- Olive oil and grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- A shake of rice vinegar and sesame seeds
- Drizzle of balsamic reduction
- Lemon zest
- Slivered toasted almonds
- Goat cheese or feta crumbles
- Minced garlic
- Panko and dried herbs
Want More Easy Side Dish Recipes?
And there you have it - the best steamed broccoli recipe! We use it all the time as a side dish for various meals, from meatloaf to salmon to shrimp to pasta. If you're looking to expand your repertoire of side dishes, here are a few more recommendations:
- Instant Pot lemon green beans (seriously fast)
- The BEST kale salad (seriously the best)
- Parmesan potato wedges (seriously good)
- Easy green salads (always a hit)
- Best Brussels sprouts (salty and crispy)
- Broccoli stir fry (works as a side or main dish)
This Steamed Broccoli Recipe Is...
Vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free option, simply omit the feta cheese.
