Lemon Herb Broccoli
Bright and fresh Lemon Herb Broccoli features tender-steamed florets drizzled with a tangy lemon mustard sauce, perfect as a healthy side for grilled chicken or fish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam broccoli over boiling water in a large saucepan for 3 to 4 minutes or until tender-crisp.
- Melt oleo in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Blend in lemon juice, mustard and marjoram.
- Spoon the lemon herb sauce over the steamed broccoli.
- Serve with grilled chicken breasts or broiled fish fillets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a brighter flavor, consider using fresh lemon zest along with the juice. If you want a creamier sauce, you can substitute the oleo with olive oil or vegan butter. Feel free to adjust the level of Dijon mustard to suit your taste. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish can also be made with other vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Herb Broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken breasts or broiled fish fillets, making it a great addition to a healthy dinner. You can also serve it alongside a light salad, like Macaroni Salad Veronique, for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it over quinoa or brown rice for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam the broccoli again briefly or microwave it in short bursts until warmed through, being careful not to overcook. The sauce can be reheated separately on the stove for a few minutes. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Herb Broccoli contains roughly 38 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply steam it according to package instructions, but be aware that it may become softer than fresh broccoli. Adjust the cooking time to ensure it remains tender-crisp.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, substitute the oleo with a plant-based butter or olive oil. Ensure that your Dijon mustard is vegan-friendly, and you've got a delicious vegan side dish for any meal.
What other herbs can I use besides marjoram?
You can experiment with various herbs such as thyme, oregano, or even basil for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its unique taste to the dish, so feel free to mix and match based on your preferences.
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).