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Perfectly Crisp-Tender Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Garlic Butter

Bright green steamed broccoli florets seasoned with lemon zest and coarse salt in a white bowl.
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Learn the simple stovetop method to steam broccoli so it stays vibrant green and crisp-tender every time. Finish this healthy side dish with a bright lemon garlic butter for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head broccoli (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broccoli: Wash the head of broccoli. Cut the head into uniform, bite-sized florets. You can chop the tender inner stalk into small pieces as well.
  2. Set up the steamer: Pour 1/2 cup of water into a large skillet or pot that has a tight-fitting lid. Place a steamer basket inside the pot, ensuring the water level is below the bottom of the basket.
  3. Steam the broccoli: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, place the broccoli florets into the steamer basket. Cover the pot tightly with the lid.
  4. Cook until crisp-tender: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Steam the broccoli for 4 to 6 minutes. Check for doneness after 4 minutes; you want it tender when pierced with a fork but still slightly firm (crisp-tender). Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy, dull green broccoli.
  5. Prepare the topping: While the broccoli steams, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but do not let the garlic brown.
  6. Finish and serve: Immediately transfer the hot, steamed broccoli to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the lemon garlic butter, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Serve right away as an easy weeknight side.

Notes

  • For a restaurant-style flavor similar to Longhorn Steakhouse broccoli, increase the butter to 2 tablespoons and add 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese at the end.
  • If you do not have a steamer basket, you can place the broccoli directly into the simmering water, but reduce the cooking time to 3-4 minutes and drain immediately.
  • To achieve vibrant green vegetables, shock the broccoli briefly in ice water after steaming, then drain well before adding the butter sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/steamed-broccoli-lemon-garlic-butter-recipe/