Broccoli With Sour Cream Sauce
A creamy broccoli side dish featuring tender broccoli smothered in a tangy sour cream and lemon sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions.
- Drain the broccoli.
- Melt butter or margarine in a saucepan.
- Add lemon juice and sour cream to the melted butter.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until hot.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked broccoli and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion powder to the sour cream sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream. Fresh broccoli may require a shorter cooking time than frozen, so keep an eye on it to maintain crispness. For a twist, mix in some grated cheese or herbs for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli with sour cream sauce makes a great side dish for grilled meats or fish, complementing flavors in dishes like Ham-Cheese Pretzel Pick-Ups. It can also be served alongside baked potatoes for a hearty vegetarian option. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread, such as Herbed Oatmeal Pan Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broccoli with sour cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave or skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess if the sauce thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Sour Cream Sauce contains roughly 250 calories, with 6g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), and potassium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
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 adjust the cooking time, as fresh broccoli typically cooks faster. Steam or boil it until tender but still vibrant green for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! To lighten the dish, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a light sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a drizzle of olive oil for a healthier fat option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli and sauce ahead of time. Cook the broccoli and prepare the sauce, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the broccoli and sauce together, ensuring it's heated through before serving.
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).