Steve'S Steamed Italino Broccoli
A light, crunchy broccoli appetizer dressed with Italian salad dressing, perfect for a refreshing cold side or hors d'oeuvres at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam broccoli until it is still crunchy.
- Cool broccoli, then refrigerate.
- Before serving cold, add a very small amount of Italian salad dressing.
Tips & Substitutions
To keep your broccoli crunchy, steam it for just 3-5 minutes, checking for doneness frequently. If you want to add flavor without calories, consider a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of lemon juice instead of Italian dressing. For a vibrant touch, try adding cherry tomatoes or olives as a garnish. This dish can also be enhanced with some parmesan cheese for richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this steamed broccoli as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or alongside pasta dishes like Beef Vinnie or Brasciole. It pairs beautifully with Jane'S Italian Dressing for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider adding a grain like quinoa or brown rice, and feel free to toss in some nuts or seeds for extra texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover steamed broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam it lightly again or microwave it for 30 seconds to a minute, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. The broccoli can also be enjoyed cold, maintaining its crunchy texture if stored properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steve'S Steamed Italino Broccoli contains roughly 60 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 733mg per serving (32% 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 remember to reduce the steaming time as it is usually blanched before freezing. Aim for about 2-3 minutes of steaming to keep it crunchy. Frozen broccoli can be a convenient alternative, especially when fresh is not available.
Is it possible to add other vegetables to the steam?
Absolutely! You can steam other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers alongside the broccoli. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. This adds color and variety, making it a delightful addition to your meal.
How can I make this dish more flavorful without extra calories?
To enhance flavor without added calories, try infusing the steaming water with herbs like basil or oregano. You can also toss the broccoli with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast after steaming for a savory kick. These options keep it healthy while elevating the taste.
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).