Broccoli Italian
A flavorful Italian-inspired broccoli dish featuring garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a quick broil for a delicious side perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Partly defrost the frozen broccoli spears.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter.
- Cut the garlic clove in half and sauté until golden. Remove the garlic.
- Spread the broccoli in a single layer in the pan.
- Saute, turning gently, for about 10 minutes or until tender.
- Arrange the broccoli in a flameproof serving dish.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place under the broiler for about 1 minute until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, try adding red pepper flakes or lemon zest when sautéing the broccoli. If you don’t have frozen broccoli, fresh broccoli can be used; just blanch it first. Substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. This dish can also be enhanced with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture. This pairs beautifully with Cavetelli And Broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Italian as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also complements a hearty pasta dish like Less Fat Lasagna beautifully. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light salad or crusty bread. This dish is perfect for a vegetarian meal and can be featured in a buffet setting.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the broccoli moist. You can also microwave it, covered, for about 1-2 minutes until heated through, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Italian contains roughly 238 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 23g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Just make sure to blanch it briefly in boiling water before sautéing to ensure it cooks evenly and retains its vibrant color. Adjust the sautéing time as fresh broccoli may require less time to become tender.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based cheese alternative instead of Parmesan. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious version of Broccoli Italian while adhering to a vegan diet.
What can I serve with Broccoli Italian?
Broccoli Italian pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, fish, or pasta dishes, such as Pasta Buffet With Alfredo Sauce. It also makes a great addition to a vegetarian meal. A light salad or garlic bread can round out the meal nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).