Sautéed Broccoli with Zesty Balsamic Dressing
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant Sautéed Broccoli with Zesty Balsamic Dressing. Fresh, crisp broccoli is lightly steamed to retain its nutrients and bright color, then tossed with a lively dressing made from sautéed shallots and garlic, balanced with the tangy notes of balsamic vinegar and the sharpness of Dijon mustard. This dish not only makes a nutritious companion to any main course but also adds a gourmet touch to your dinner table. Perfect for a healthy meal any night of the week.
4
Servings
40
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh broccoli
1 lb (trimmed and cut into florets)
olive oil
4 teaspoons (divided)
shallots
2 tablespoons (chopped)
garlic
2 teaspoons (minced)
balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by steaming the broccoli florets in a steamer basket for about 5 minutes or until they are crisp-tender and vibrant green. Avoid overcooking to maintain their crunch and nutrients.
2
While the broccoli is steaming, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
3
Once the oil is hot, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until the shallots are translucent and the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4
Remove the skillet from heat, then carefully stir in the balsamic vinegar, the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, and the Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything is combined.
5
Transfer the steamed broccoli to a large bowl, pour the balsamic dressing over it, and toss gently until the broccoli is evenly coated. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
2.25g
Fat
3.75g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sautéed Broccoli with Zesty Balsamic Dressing?
It is a vibrant side dish featuring steamed broccoli tossed in a dressing made of sautéed shallots, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal products.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used, including balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard, are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in a serving of this broccoli dish?
Each serving contains approximately 40 calories.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
How long should I steam the broccoli?
Steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they are crisp-tender and vibrant green.
What ingredients are in the zesty dressing?
The dressing is made from olive oil, chopped shallots, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, though the texture may be softer. Be sure to adjust the steaming time as needed.
How do I prepare the shallots for this recipe?
The shallots should be finely chopped before being sautéed in olive oil.
What is the purpose of the Dijon mustard?
Dijon mustard adds a sharp tanginess and helps to emulsify the balsamic and oil dressing.
Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar?
While balsamic provides a specific depth, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?
Avoid overcooking; steam only until the broccoli is crisp-tender and immediately remove it from the heat source.
Is this dish dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is completely dairy-free as it uses olive oil rather than butter.
What is the protein content per serving?
There is approximately 1.25g of protein in each serving.
What type of oil is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 teaspoons of olive oil, used in two parts.
Can this broccoli be made in advance?
Yes, it can be prepared ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a short duration to maintain the broccoli's texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, vegetables like cauliflower, sliced carrots, or bell peppers would pair well with this dressing.
What main courses go well with this side dish?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or as a side for a hearty pasta dish.
How long does it take to sauté the aromatics?
Sautéing the shallots and garlic takes about 2 minutes over medium heat.
Can I use red onion if I don't have shallots?
Yes, finely chopped red onion is a great substitute for shallots, offering a similar but slightly sharper flavor.
Is this a low-carb recipe?
Yes, with only 3.75g of carbohydrates per serving, this is a very low-carb side dish.
How much fat is in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 2.25g of fat.
Can I use pre-minced jarred garlic?
Yes, you can use bottled garlic, though fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
Do I need a steamer basket to make this?
A steamer basket is ideal for texture, but you can also lightly blanch the broccoli in a small amount of boiling water.
Can this be served as a cold salad?
Absolutely, this dish is delicious when served cold as a marinated broccoli salad.
Is there any added sugar in the dressing?
No, there is no added sugar; the sweetness comes naturally from the balsamic vinegar.
Are the garlic and shallots served raw?
No, they are sautéed in olive oil until translucent and fragrant before being mixed into the dressing.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double all ingredients to serve 8 people.