Description
Learn the simple stovetop method to steam broccoli florets until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Finish with a light lemon and herb dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into uniform florets
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli by washing the head and cutting it into bite-sized florets.
- Place the 1/2 cup of water into a large skillet or pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Place the broccoli florets into the pot, ensuring they sit above the boiling water if using a steamer basket, or directly in the water if you prefer a slightly softer texture.
- Cover the pot immediately and reduce the heat to medium.
- Steam for 4 to 6 minutes. Check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should offer slight resistance.
- Drain any remaining water immediately.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the lemon herb drizzle over the hot broccoli and toss gently to coat. Serve right away.
Notes
- For a garlic flavor, add 1 minced clove of garlic to the lemon drizzle mixture.
- If you prefer a restaurant-style flavor, substitute the drizzle with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese tossed with the hot broccoli.
- To achieve the brightest green color, plunge the hot, steamed broccoli into an ice bath for 30 seconds immediately after draining, then drain again before dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 6 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop Steaming
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 2
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0