Broccoli is delicious grilled or steamed, hot or cold and is easy to prepare. Broccoli is one of the most popular vegetables and is available year-round in the U.S.
Basic Preparation
Trim broccoli stalks and peel outer layer of the remaining stem. For grilling, slice broccoli lengthwise in long stalks. Otherwise, slice stalk end into coins, then separate the brocolli flowerets carefully with a small knife. Rinse well.
Steamed Broccoli
Steam or boil broccoli for 5 minutes. To retain bright green color, plunge the cooked broccoli into a bowl of ice cold water, then drain. Serve as is or in any of the variations below.
Grilled Broccoli
Grilled broccoli is our absolute favorite way to make broccoli. Prepare 1 pound broccoli for grilling by steaming or boiling as directed above. Coat broccoli with spray oil. Place over coals for 3-4 minutes. Flip over and grill for 2 more minutes. Remove and serve the broccoli as is or, to use in any of variations below, cut into 1" pieces and separate flowerets. Serve any of the following hot, room temperature or chilled as a salad.
Variations:
Toss steamed or grilled broccoli with:
- Herb-Pepper Broccoli: 1/4 cup mild vinegar, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme(or oregano) and fresh ground pepper; Use a mild vinegar like apple cider or rice wine vinegar.
- Red Pepper-Garlic Broccoli: 1/4 cup chopped red pepper, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 2 Tablespoons olive oil; Can substitute roasted red peppers; Sesame oil is a great substitute for the olive oil, but use only 1/2 teaspoon; Let this marinate for a least an hour.
- Red Onion-Dill Broccoli: 1/4 cup mild vinegar, 1/4 cup chopped celery, 1/4 cup chopped red onion, 1/4 cup fresh minced dill, 1/4 cup sliced red radishes; Use a mild vinegar, like apple cider or rice wine vinegar; Any combination of these ingredients make a great broccoli dish.
Quick Tip: Use leftover broccoli
in at-home salad bar
or in an omelet.