Variations of Steamed Broccoli
Simple Steamed Broccoli
The simplest way to steam broccoli is to use a steamer basket. Here's how to do it:
1. Rinse the broccoli under running water and cut it into florets.
2. Fill a pot with an inch of water and bring it to a boil.
3. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket and place it over the pot.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the broccoli for 5-7 minutes, or until it's tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Remove the steamer basket from the pot and transfer the broccoli to a serving dish.
6. Season the broccoli with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Steamed broccoli is delicious on its own, but it can also be used as a base for other dishes. Here are some variations to try:
Garlic Steamed Broccoli
Garlic adds a delicious flavor to steamed broccoli. Here's how to make it:
1. Follow the instructions for steaming broccoli.
2. While the broccoli is steaming, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan.
3. Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for a minute or until fragrant.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
5. Once the broccoli is done, transfer it to a serving dish.
6. Pour the garlic and oil over the broccoli and mix well.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
Lemon Steamed Broccoli
Lemon adds a zesty flavor to steamed broccoli. Here's how to make it:
1. Follow the instructions for steaming broccoli.
2. While the broccoli is steaming, cut a lemon in half.
3. Once the broccoli is done, transfer it to a serving dish.
4. Squeeze the lemon over the broccoli.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
Parmesan Steamed Broccoli
Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor to steamed broccoli. Here's how to make it:
1. Follow the instructions for steaming broccoli.
2. Once the broccoli is done, transfer it to a serving dish.
3. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have some delicious variations of steamed broccoli, let's explore some creative serving suggestions.
Broccoli and Cheese Soup
Broccoli and cheese soup is a classic comfort food that's easy to make. Here's how to make it:
1. In a large pot, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in
2 tablespoons of butter until the onion is translucent. 2. Add 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
3. Add 4 cups of steamed broccoli florets and reduce the heat to low.
4. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it's smooth.
6. Add 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry
Broccoli and chicken stir-fry is a healthy and delicious meal that's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Here's how to make it:
1. Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until it's browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
5. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add 4 cups of steamed broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is heated through.
7. Return the chicken to the wok and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve with rice or noodles.
Broccoli and Quinoa Salad
Broccoli and quinoa salad is a healthy and filling salad that's perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. Here's how to make it:
1. Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to the package instructions and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of steamed broccoli florets, 1 diced red bell pepper, 1 diced yellow bell pepper, 1 diced cucumber, and 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. 5. Serve chilled.
Conclusion
Steamed broccoli is a healthy and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With these variations and serving suggestions, you can enjoy this nutritious veggie in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a simple side dish or a creative meal idea, broccoli has got you covered. So, let's get steaming and enjoy the many benefits of this wonderful vegetable.