Perfectly Tender-Crisp Steamed Broccoli
Learn the simple method to steam broccoli on the stovetop until it is bright green and tender-crisp. Includes an optional garlic butter drizzle.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 6 min
- Total Time: 11 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop Steaming
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head broccoli
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Wash the head of broccoli and cut it into uniform florets, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
- Pour 1/2 cup of water into a large skillet or pot that has a tight-fitting lid.
- Place the broccoli florets into the skillet. Do not let them sit in the water.
- Cover the skillet tightly with the lid and place it over medium-high heat.
- Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and steam for 4 to 6 minutes.
- Check the broccoli; it should be bright green and slightly tender when pierced with a fork, but still have some bite (tender-crisp).
- While the broccoli steams, melt the butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not brown the garlic.
- Drain any remaining water from the skillet with the broccoli.
- Toss the steamed broccoli with the garlic butter, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For microwave steaming, place florets and 2 tablespoons of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes.
- To achieve bright green color, do not overcook the broccoli. Stop cooking immediately when the color brightens.
- For a Parmesan finish, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese over the hot broccoli before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 80
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 8