Easy Sautéed Broccoli

This Easy Sautéed Broccoli is perfect as a side but also a great addition to a pasta or wholesome grain bowl.

Broccoli has been cultivated for centuries and features in a wide range of global cuisines. However, I was surprised to learn that Thomas Jefferson likely played a role in its introduction to the United States. In 1767, Jefferson recorded planting broccoli at his estate, Monticello. He had a keen interest in horticulture and experimented with many vegetables in his extensive gardens, even meticulously documenting these endeavors. Jefferson maintained a garden book where he logged planting dates, crop varieties, and other observations. These notes were instrumental in shaping early American agricultural practices, and today, Monticello remains a historic site where visitors can learn more about his experiments firsthand.

While broccoli may not be native to American soil, it has certainly become a staple in many households, including mine. It’s my husband’s favorite vegetable and something I regularly encourage my kids to eat, albeit sometimes with a little extra persuasion.

Growing up, I remember my mother boiling broccoli, a method that unfortunately reduces some of its nutritional value and doesn’t yield the tastiest results. For years, I adapted by steaming the broccoli first and then sautéing it, but this required multiple pans and added unnecessary cleanup.

This easy sautéed broccoli recipe simplifies the process. You sauté the broccoli and garlic first, then add a splash of water and cover the pan to essentially steam the vegetable. Only one pan is needed to make this quick and flavorful dish the whole family will love. Right before serving, I add a squeeze of fresh lemon for a boost of vibrant flavor and some red pepper flakes (optional) for a hint of heat. Of course, you’re free to dress up the broccoli however you like. There are plenty of delicious options, as you’ll see below.

Is Sautéed Broccoli Healthy?

Yes! I love it when I can confidently say that a recipe is healthy. Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse that offers vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron. In this recipe, we briefly sauté the fiber-rich cruciferous vegetable in a little heart-healthy olive oil. If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to omit the salt.

Dressing Up Your Broccoli

While this side dish is perfect with just a little lemon and a scattering of red pepper flakes, there are other delicious ways to dress it up. If you’re going for an Italian-inspired dish, finish it with a handful of pangrattato, or toasted bread. Simply blitz some stale bread into fine crumbs, melt down a few anchovy fillets in a little olive oil along with a clove of garlic, and sauté the bread until golden. Scatter over the broccoli and finish with a good drizzle of olive oil for incredible taste and an irresistible crunch. Crowning the broccoli with a handful of toasted nuts is also a great idea. Try slivered almonds, pine nuts, or chopped hazelnuts. For an Asian touch, finish with a good drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Caramelized shallots and Parmesan cheese will add both sweet and savory notes to your broccoli.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the broccoli with delicate fish dishes such as Pan-Seared Salmon or Baked Cod With Panko. It also makes a lovely addition to this vibrant Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad or a Citrus Tuna Ceviche Bowl. In the mood for a quick and tasty lunch? Serve the broccoli over a bowl of Quinoa with Crispy Baked Tofu and a drizzle of Vegan Teriyaki Sauce.

Recipe