Garlic-Infused Slow-Cooked Broccoli
This Garlic-Infused Slow-Cooked Broccoli recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy this vibrant vegetable. Slow-cooking allows the broccoli to absorb the rich flavors of garlic and olive oil, creating a tender yet flavorful side dish. With a hint of lemon acidity to brighten the dish, it pairs well with both meat and vegetarian meals. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this broccoli is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're looking to highlight seasonal produce or simply searching for a quick and healthy vegetable dish, this recipe is a must-try. Embrace the simplicity and vibrant taste of homemade cooking as you savor each bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
broccoli
1.5 lbs (cut into 1-inch florets and 1/4-inch stems)
extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
garlic cloves
3 (minced)
water
1/2 cup (for steaming)
lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a skillet with a tight-fitting lid, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 3 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
2
Next, add the broccoli stems to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3
Then, add the broccoli florets and half a cup of water to the skillet. Cover the skillet with the lid and allow the broccoli to cook for 15 minutes on medium-low heat. This will ensure the broccoli is tender but retains some of its vibrant color.
4
After 15 minutes, remove the lid and turn the heat up to high. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the remaining liquid in the pan has evaporated.
5
Finally, sprinkle with fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of garlic and olive oil infused broccoli!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic-Infused Slow-Cooked Broccoli?
It is a nutritious side dish where broccoli is slowly cooked with garlic and olive oil to allow it to absorb rich flavors while remaining tender.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires broccoli, extra virgin olive oil, garlic cloves, water, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
How much broccoli is used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of broccoli.
How should I prepare the broccoli florets?
The florets should be cut into 1-inch pieces.
How should the broccoli stems be sliced?
The stems should be sliced into 1/4-inch pieces.
What type of oil is recommended for sautéing?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor profile.
How many garlic cloves are required?
You will need 3 minced garlic cloves.
How long should the garlic be sautéed?
The garlic should be sautéed for about 3 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
Should the garlic be browned?
No, the garlic should be fragrant but not browned to avoid a bitter taste.
How long do I sauté the broccoli stems?
Sauté the broccoli stems for 2 minutes after sautéing the garlic.
How much water is used for steaming the broccoli?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of water for the steaming process.
What heat setting is used for steaming?
The broccoli should be cooked on medium-low heat while covered.
How long do I cook the broccoli florets under the lid?
The florets should cook for 15 minutes with the lid on.
Why do I cover the skillet with a lid?
The lid traps steam, which ensures the broccoli becomes tender while retaining its vibrant color.
What is the purpose of the final cooking step on high heat?
The heat is turned to high to evaporate any remaining liquid in the pan.
How long is the final high-heat cooking step?
This step should take an additional 2-3 minutes.
What seasoning is added at the end?
Sprinkle the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
When do I add the lemon juice?
Add the lemon juice at the very end, just before serving.
What type of lemon juice is best?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, as it uses only plant-based ingredients, it is suitable for vegans.
Does this recipe contain gluten?
No, all ingredients listed in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Is this broccoli dish healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy side dish rich in nutrients and prepared with heart-healthy olive oil.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead?
Fresh broccoli is preferred for the best texture, though frozen can be used with adjusted cooking times.
What main dishes go well with this side?
It pairs well with both meat-based dishes and vegetarian meals.
Can I add red pepper flakes for heat?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes during the garlic sautéing stage for a spicy kick.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
The cooked broccoli should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when refrigerated.
How do I reheat the broccoli?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave-safe dish.
What is the total cooking time approximately?
The total active and passive cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.