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Perfect Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Butter Parmesan Drizzle

Close-up of bright green steamed broccoli florets topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Learn the simple stovetop method to steam broccoli until it is bright green and tender-crisp. This recipe includes a quick garlic butter Parmesan drizzle to transform plain steamed broccoli into a flavorful side dish ready in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into uniform florets
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broccoli by washing the head and cutting it into bite-sized florets.
  2. Place a steamer basket inside a large skillet or pot that has a tight-fitting lid. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the pot, making sure the water level is below the bottom of the steamer basket.
  3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Place the broccoli florets into the steamer basket. Cover the pot tightly with the lid.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and steam the broccoli for 4 to 6 minutes. Check for doneness; you want it tender-crisp and bright green.
  6. While the broccoli steams, prepare the drizzle. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but do not let it brown. Remove from heat.
  7. Once the broccoli is cooked, carefully remove the steamer basket and transfer the broccoli to a serving bowl.
  8. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the hot broccoli. Toss gently to coat.
  9. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper over the broccoli. Toss once more lightly. Serve immediately as a quick dinner idea or healthy meal prep side.

Notes

  • For microwave steaming, place florets in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the bowl loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (vented). Microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  • If you prefer a soy drizzle instead of Parmesan, mix 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and drizzle over the steamed broccoli. This variation is great for a vegan side dish.
  • To achieve the brightest green color, immediately plunge the steamed broccoli into an ice water bath for 1 minute after cooking, then drain well before adding the topping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummagnet.com/steamed-broccoli-perfect-garlic-parmesan-drizzle/