Steamed Broccoli With Sesame Vinaigrette
Bright and fresh steamed broccoli drizzled with a nutty sesame vinaigrette, perfect as a healthy side dish for any meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 7 minutes. Set aside.
- Trim off leaves and tough lower stalks of broccoli. Wash thoroughly and separate into spears.
- Arrange broccoli in a vegetable steamer with stalks toward the center and steam for 6 minutes.
- Drain the broccoli and set aside.
- Combine toasted sesame seeds, white vinegar, olive oil, water, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- Stir the vinaigrette well and drizzle over the steamed broccoli before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your steamed broccoli, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the vinaigrette. If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute sunflower seeds for sesame seeds. For a quicker cooking method, you can microwave the broccoli with a bit of water in a covered dish for about 3-4 minutes. This recipe pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Fruity Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this steamed broccoli as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a balanced meal. It also makes a delightful addition to any buffet or potluck, and pairs nicely with dishes like Frankfurter Goulash. For a complete meal, consider adding grains such as quinoa or brown rice, and drizzling extra vinaigrette over the whole plate.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover steamed broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam again for a few minutes or microwave until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also enjoy it cold in salads or as a snack. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steamed Broccoli With Sesame Vinaigrette contains roughly 88 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value).
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, but keep in mind that the texture may be softer. Steam the frozen broccoli for about 4-5 minutes until tender. Adjust the steaming time as needed, since frozen vegetables release moisture during cooking.
What can I substitute for white vinegar in the vinaigrette?
If you don't have white vinegar on hand, apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can serve as excellent substitutes, each adding a slightly different flavor profile. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed since the acidity levels may vary.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding protein such as chickpeas or edamame. You can also toss in some cooked grains like quinoa or farro, which will complement the broccoli and vinaigrette nicely while adding texture and heartiness.
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).