Microwave broccoli is the perfect way to fit in some extra veggies into your diet, when you don’t feel like putting in the effort to cook a complicated side dish. Microwave steamed broccoli is packed with nutrients and extremely versatile. It can be eaten with pasta, rice, chicken, fish, or even as a main course in a salad or bowl. Some popular combinations include broccoli with cheese sauce, stir-fries, or in casseroles.
Following this method from Simply Recipes, will ensure the broccoli comes out ‘bright green, crisp, and tender’, offering that classic steamed broccoli experience, without the hassle.
Before you start,you’ll need to make sure you have the following ingredients :
1 large head of broccoli
59ml water
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional
¼ teaspoon garlic powder, optional
Once your ingredients are in check you can begin by cutting the broccoli into wide florets. If you like to cook the stem, trim the dry ends and peel the stalk, then slice into ¼-inch slices. Place them into a large microwavable bowl. Then pour the water into the bowl. Cover with a plate, making sure all the florets can fit in the bowl without peeking out. Be sure that the plate lies flat on top of the bowl, so that you can capture all of the steam.
Set your microwave to high and place the bowl in for 4 minutes. Once the time is up, let the broccoli sit for 2 minutes on the side with the plate still on top so that they can continue to steam. You can test if the broccoli is well cooked by poking a fork through one of the stems. The fork should be able to pierce the steam with little force for a crispy-tender texture. If you feel it’s not done yet, continue to place the bowl in for 30 second increments with the plate on top, until you reach your desired texture.
You will then need to strain the broccoli by transferring it to a colander, draining any excess water, then returning it to the original bowl.The final step is dressing the broccoli. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the broccoli while it is still hot. Toss until the butter is completely melted and the broccoli is evenly coated. Taste and add more salt as needed.
Food writer Hannah Zimmerman said that she likes to, “add some lemon juice and garlic powder” to hers. Any leftover broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave uncovered on high for 1 minute.
Hannah also shared some of her favourite ways that you can make this recipe your own:
- Sprinkle on some Parmesan, pecorino, or Asiago cheese.
- Add a dash of red pepper flakes to give your broccoli a kick.
- Add a tablespoon of soy sauce for some umami flavor.
- Replace the water with vegetable or chicken broth for more savory flavor.
- Drizzle your favorite salad dressing on top. Lemon vinaigrette, honey mustard, and blue cheese dressing all work well.
- My favorite way to dress up microwave broccoli is with tahini sauce.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and some garlic powder
Bruce Turner left a positive review on the Simply Recipes website, saying that “Microwaved broccoli is the best way to cook, as it keeps the color of the broccoli looking fresh.”
