Garlic Sauteed Broccoli
A vibrant and flavorful side dish that turns tender-crisp broccoli florets golden-brown in aromatic garlic and olive oil.
Ingredients
- •1 large head broccoli (about 1.5 pounds), cut into bite-sized florets
- •3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- •4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- •2 tablespoons water
- •1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- •1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- •1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- •1 lemon, zested and juiced for finishing
Instructions
- 1
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and pat the florets completely dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure proper browning.
- 2
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers gently.
- 3
Add the sliced garlic to the warm oil and saute for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just turning light golden brown.
- 4
Carefully add the broccoli florets to the skillet, tossing them well in the garlic and oil to coat.
- 5
Pour in the 2 tablespoons of water and immediately cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid to steam the broccoli for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns bright green.
- 6
Remove the lid, turn the heat up slightly to medium-high, and saute uncovered for another 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and lightly charred in spots.
- 7
Season the broccoli with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, tossing well to combine.
- 8
Remove the skillet from the heat, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest, and serve immediately.
💡 Chef tips
- Make sure your broccoli is completely dry before adding it to the pan; excess moisture will cause it to steam and get mushy instead of browning.
- Watch the garlic closely while sauteing, as thin slices burn very quickly and can turn bitter.
- Leftover sauteed broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished broccoli is bright vibrant green with light golden-brown edges, smelling intensely of sweet roasted garlic and fresh citrus, with a tender-crisp texture.