Lemon-Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
Elevate your vegetable side dish with this zesty Lemon-Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe. Bursting with flavor from fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes, this dish brings tender-crisp broccoli florets to life. Sprinkled generously with freshly grated Parmesan, it’s a nutritious and tasty addition to any meal, perfect for Atkins dieters or anyone looking for a healthier side. Share this delightful recipe at your next gathering or enjoy it as a simple weeknight dinner accompaniment.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
garlic cloves
2 (pressed through a garlic press)
crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon (none)
broccoli
2 pounds (cut into florets; stems peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
water
1/4 cup (none)
fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons (none)
lemon zest
2 teaspoons (grated)
salt
to taste (none)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (freshly grated)
Instructions
1
In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2
Add the pressed garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
3
Stir in the broccoli florets and cut stems, then pour in the water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix everything well to coat the broccoli.
4
Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium, cooking for about 8 minutes or until the broccoli is crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.
5
Once the broccoli is cooked, season it to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give it a final toss to mix.
6
Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon-Garlic Parmesan Broccoli?
It is a zesty, low-carb side dish featuring tender-crisp broccoli seasoned with fresh lemon juice, garlic, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for the Atkins diet?
Yes, this recipe is specifically noted as being perfect for Atkins dieters and those looking for a healthy, low-carb side dish.
How much broccoli is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 pounds of broccoli, including both the florets and the stems.
How should the broccoli stems be prepared?
The stems should be peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces before cooking.
What type of oil is used to sauté the broccoli?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing.
How do I prepare the garlic for this dish?
The 2 garlic cloves should be pressed through a garlic press to maximize their flavor.
How long should I sauté the garlic?
Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Is this broccoli dish spicy?
It has a slight hint of heat provided by 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
What is the purpose of adding water to the skillet?
Adding 1/4 cup of water helps steam the broccoli when the skillet is covered, ensuring it becomes tender-crisp.
How much lemon juice and zest is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of grated lemon zest.
How long does the broccoli need to cook while covered?
Cover the skillet and cook for about 8 minutes over medium heat.
How do I know when the broccoli is finished cooking?
The broccoli is ready when it reaches a tender-crisp texture.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
While pre-grated cheese works, freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture for this dish.
How should I season the final dish?
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste after the broccoli has finished steaming.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or replacing it with a plant-based alternative.
What is the recommended heat setting for the skillet?
Start with medium-high heat to shimmer the oil, then reduce to medium once the skillet is covered.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, though fresh broccoli provides a better crisp-tender texture. If using frozen, you may need to adjust the water and cooking time.
Why should I peel the broccoli stems?
Peeling removes the tough, fibrous outer layer of the stems, making them just as tender as the florets when cooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including broccoli, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, are naturally gluten-free.
What are the main flavor profiles of this dish?
The main flavors are zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan, and a slight spice from red pepper flakes.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
How should I reheat this broccoli?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture, or use a microwave for a quick option.
What dishes pair well with Lemon-Garlic Parmesan Broccoli?
It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, steak, or as a side for a low-carb pasta dish.
Is there a lot of sodium in this recipe?
The sodium content depends on how much salt you add to taste and the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese.
Can I use a different type of citrus?
While lemon is traditional, you could use lime for a different citrus profile, though the flavor will change significantly.
Do I need a large skillet?
Yes, a large, deep skillet is recommended to fit 2 pounds of broccoli comfortably.
What if I don't have a garlic press?
If you don't have a press, you can finely mince the garlic with a sharp knife to achieve a similar result.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, cauliflower or bell peppers would be excellent additions, though you may need to adjust cooking times.
Is the lemon zest necessary?
The lemon zest provides a concentrated citrus aroma that enhances the dish significantly beyond just using juice.