More Interesting Broccoli Recipes

Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many tasty ways. It’s packed with nutrients and adds color to your plate. With the right recipes, you can turn this green veggie into delicious meals your whole family will enjoy.

These 16 broccoli recipes will give you new ideas for cooking this healthy vegetable. You’ll find options for quick side dishes, hearty casseroles, and even main courses featuring broccoli as the star. Whether you like your broccoli roasted, steamed, or raw, there’s a recipe here you’ll want to try.

1. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting classic you can easily make at home. Start by sautéing onions in butter until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.

Next, whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Add chopped broccoli and cook until tender. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For extra creaminess, you can blend part of the soup. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese and croutons if desired.

2. Garlic Roasted Broccoli

Garlic roasted broccoli is a tasty and simple side dish. You can make it in just a few steps.

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Cut broccoli into florets and place them on a baking sheet.

Mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the broccoli and toss to coat evenly.

Spread the broccoli in a single layer on the sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish pairs well with many main courses.

3. Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Broccoli Alfredo pasta combines creamy sauce with tender broccoli for a tasty meal. You can make it in one pot for easy cleanup.

Cook fettuccine according to the package directions. While it cooks, steam broccoli until crisp-tender.

In a pan, melt butter and stir in flour. Gradually add milk to make a smooth sauce. Add garlic, salt, and pepper for flavor.

Mix the cooked pasta, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce together. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

4. Broccoli Slaw

This dish is quick to prepare and makes a filling dinner. You can add chicken for extra protein if you like.

Broccoli slaw offers a fresh twist on traditional coleslaw. It’s crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor. You can make it using fresh broccoli or a pre-packaged mix from the grocery store.

To prepare broccoli slaw, mix mayo, vinegar, and mustard for the dressing. Add celery seed, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Combine the dressing with broccoli slaw mix in a large bowl.

For more texture and taste, try adding chopped parsley, crunchy cashews, or sweet craisins. Some recipes even include fresh apples or crispy bacon bits. Chill the slaw for a few hours before serving to let the flavors blend.

This versatile side dish is perfect for summer barbecues, cookouts, and potlucks. It’s easy to make ahead of time and always a crowd-pleaser.

5. Broccoli Quiche

Broccoli quiche is a tasty way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by blind baking a pie crust until lightly golden. While it cools, cook chopped broccoli with onions and garlic until tender.

Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper to create the custard. Spread the cooked vegetables in the crust and pour the egg mixture over top.

Sprinkle cheese on top and bake until the quiche is set and golden brown. This versatile dish works well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Serve your broccoli quiche warm or at room temperature. It pairs nicely with a side salad for a complete meal.

6. Broccoli Frittata

Broccoli frittata is a tasty and easy dish you can whip up for breakfast or brunch. To make it, start by sautéing chopped broccoli with onions and garlic in an oven-safe skillet.

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and your favorite cheese. Pour this mixture over the cooked broccoli in the skillet.

Let it cook on the stovetop for a few minutes until the edges start to set. Then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven.

Bake until the frittata is golden and puffy. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Serve it hot, cut into wedges.

7. Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender broccoli with creamy sauce and a crunchy topping. You can make it easily at home for a tasty side dish or potluck contribution.

To prepare, start by cooking broccoli florets until just tender. Mix them with a creamy sauce made from condensed soup, mayonnaise, and cheese. Add beaten eggs and diced onions for extra flavor and texture.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with crushed cheese crackers. Bake until hot and bubbly, about 40 minutes at 400°F. The result is a delicious blend of textures and flavors that complements many main dishes.

8. Broccoli Stir-Fry

Broccoli stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to enjoy this nutritious veggie. To make it, start by cutting broccoli into small florets. Heat oil in a large pan over high heat.

Add the broccoli and cook for about 5 minutes until it turns bright green. Toss in some minced garlic and ginger for extra flavor. Stir-fry for another minute.

For a saucy version, mix soy sauce, stock, and sesame oil in a bowl. Pour this over the broccoli and let it simmer. Cover the pan and cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp.

You can add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to make it more colorful. Serve your stir-fry hot as a side dish or over rice for a main meal.

9. Broccoli Tater Tots

Broccoli tater tots are a tasty twist on the classic potato snack. They’re easy to make and packed with nutrients.

To prepare them, you’ll need broccoli, potatoes, cheese, and a few simple seasonings. Start by grating potatoes and chopping broccoli into small pieces.

Mix the vegetables with cheese, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Shape the mixture into small cylinders, just like regular tater tots.

Bake the tots in a preheated oven until they’re golden and crispy. They typically take about 20-25 minutes to cook.

These green-speckled tots are a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this fun, finger-friendly food.

10. Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Broccoli mac and cheese combines two comfort food favorites into one delicious dish. To make it, cook pasta until al dente and steam broccoli florets separately.

Create a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in milk. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Mix the sauce with the pasta and broccoli.

You can customize this dish to your liking. Try adding different cheeses or spices for extra flavor. Some tasty additions include garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

For a one-pot version, cook the pasta and broccoli together in milk and water. Add cheese at the end and stir until melted. This method saves time and dishes.

11. Broccoli Cheese Bites

Broccoli cheese bites are tasty snacks that combine nutritious broccoli with creamy cheese. You can bake or fry these little morsels for a crispy exterior and gooey interior.

To make them, cook and chop broccoli into small pieces. Mix it with shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and an egg to bind everything together.

Shape the mixture into small balls or patties. If baking, place them on a lined baking sheet and cook at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

For a fried version, heat oil to 375°F and cook the bites until golden brown. Serve these savory treats warm as an appetizer or side dish.

12. Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a tasty and refreshing dish you can easily make at home. Start by chopping fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the broccoli with red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds for added flavor and crunch. Some recipes also include bacon bits and shredded cheese.

For the dressing, whisk together mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup. Pour it over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.

Chill the salad in the fridge for an hour before serving to let the flavors meld. This versatile dish works great as a side or light meal.

13. Broccoli Pizza

Broccoli pizza offers a tasty way to enjoy your veggies. Start with a traditional pizza crust or try a low-carb broccoli crust for a twist.

For a broccoli topping, boil florets briefly until bright green. Spread ricotta mixed with herbs and spices on the crust. Add the broccoli and sprinkle with mozzarella.

You can also make a broccoli-based sauce by blending cooked broccoli with garlic and olive oil. Spread this on your crust before adding toppings.

Bake your broccoli pizza at a high temperature until the cheese melts and the crust turns golden. The result is a delicious, veggie-packed meal you’ll love.

14. Broccoli Pesto

Broccoli pesto offers a unique twist on the classic basil version. To make it, cook broccoli florets until tender, then blend them with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice.

You can adjust the consistency by adding olive oil as needed. This vibrant green sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, spreading a delicious veggie boost throughout your meal.

For extra flavor, toast the pine nuts before adding them to the mix. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Broccoli pesto is versatile – use it as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables. It’s a tasty way to incorporate more broccoli into your diet.

15. Broccoli Rice

Broccoli rice is a tasty low-carb alternative to regular rice. To make it, cut broccoli into small pieces. Use both florets and stems.

Pulse the broccoli in a food processor until it looks like rice. Be careful not to over-process it.

You can eat broccoli rice raw or cooked. To cook, sauté it in a pan with some oil for 1-2 minutes. Don’t cook it too long or it will lose its crunch.

Try mixing broccoli rice with cheese, garlic, or your favorite spices. It’s a great side dish or base for stir-fries and bowls.

16. Broccoli Tacos

Broccoli tacos offer a fresh twist on a classic dish. You can make them with crispy baked broccoli for a satisfying crunch. Toss the broccoli in BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.

For a vegan option, try roasted broccoli tacos with a cilantro cream sauce. Add crunchy cabbage for extra texture. You can also experiment with baby broccoli or broccolini for a slightly different taste.

Black bean and broccoli tacos are another tasty choice. They’re quick to make and packed with protein. Season them with smoky spices for added depth. These tacos work well for meatless meals or Taco Tuesdays.

The Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse that offers many health benefits. This green vegetable is packed with vitamins, minerals, and compounds that support your overall well-being.

Nutritional Value

Broccoli is low in calories but high in essential nutrients. A cup of raw, chopped broccoli has only 31 calories. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, providing over 100% of your daily needs.

Broccoli also contains:

  • Vitamin K for bone health
  • Folate for cell growth
  • Potassium for heart function
  • Fiber for digestion

This veggie offers small amounts of iron, calcium, and protein too. Adding broccoli to your meals can help you meet your daily nutrient needs without adding many calories.

Antioxidant Properties

Broccoli is rich in antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. These compounds fight harmful molecules called free radicals in your body.

Key antioxidants in broccoli include:

  • Vitamin C
  • Beta-carotene
  • Sulforaphane

Eating broccoli regularly may lower your risk of certain diseases. Its antioxidants can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. This might help prevent chronic conditions like heart disease and some cancers.

Broccoli for Digestive Health

The fiber in broccoli supports good digestion. One cup of raw broccoli provides about 2 grams of fiber. This helps keep your digestive system running smoothly.

Fiber aids in:

  • Regular bowel movements
  • Feeding beneficial gut bacteria
  • Controlling blood sugar levels

Broccoli also contains compounds that may protect your stomach lining. These could help prevent ulcers and support overall gut health. Eating broccoli as part of a balanced diet can contribute to a healthy digestive system.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Broccoli

Mastering broccoli preparation can elevate your meals. These tips will help you choose, store, and cook this nutritious vegetable for the best flavor and texture.

Choosing Fresh Broccoli

Look for broccoli with tight, dark green florets. Avoid yellowing heads, as this shows age. The stems should be firm and free from brown spots.

Fresh broccoli has a vibrant color and crisp texture. Smell the broccoli – it should have a mild, fresh scent. Avoid any that smell strong or unpleasant.

Choose heads with compact clusters. Loose or spreading florets indicate the broccoli is past its prime. The size of the head doesn’t affect quality, so pick based on your needs.

Proper Storage Methods

Store unwashed broccoli in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Poke small holes in the bag to allow air circulation. This helps prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

Use broccoli within 3-5 days for best quality. The longer you store it, the more nutrients it loses.

Don’t wash broccoli before storing. Excess moisture can lead to faster spoilage. Only rinse it right before you plan to use it.

If you need to store cut broccoli, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Use it within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture.

Preparation Techniques

Rinse broccoli under cool running water just before use. Pat it dry with a clean towel.

Cut the florets into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking. Aim for bite-sized pieces about 1-2 inches wide.

Don’t discard the stems! Peel off the tough outer layer and slice the tender inner part. It’s delicious and nutritious.

For quick cooking, try steaming. Place broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Roasting brings out broccoli’s natural sweetness. Toss florets with olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.

For stir-fries, cut broccoli into small pieces. Cook quickly over high heat to maintain crispness and bright color.

Pairing Broccoli with Other Ingredients

Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with many flavors and ingredients. You can combine it with proteins, add it to salads, or use it in soups and stews for tasty and nutritious meals.

Combining with Proteins

Broccoli goes great with chicken, beef, pork, and fish. Try roasting broccoli florets with chicken breasts for an easy one-pan dinner. For a quick stir-fry, mix broccoli with strips of beef and a savory sauce.

Tofu and broccoli make a good vegetarian pairing. Sauté cubed tofu and broccoli with garlic and soy sauce. Eggs and broccoli work well together too. Make a frittata with beaten eggs, broccoli, and cheese.

For a simple side dish, steam broccoli and top it with crumbled bacon. Or toss broccoli florets with cooked shrimp and a lemon-garlic dressing.

Incorporating Broccoli in Salads

Raw broccoli adds crunch to salads. Chop it finely and mix with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing. For a hearty broccoli slaw, combine shredded broccoli stems with carrots and a creamy dressing.

Make a broccoli and pasta salad with bow-tie pasta, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette. Try a broccoli and quinoa salad with dried cranberries and almonds for a nutritious lunch.

For a classic side, mix steamed broccoli florets with raisins, sunflower seeds, and a sweet mayo dressing. Create an Asian-inspired salad by combining blanched broccoli with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce.

Adding Broccoli to Soups and Stews

Broccoli adds color and nutrients to soups. Make a creamy broccoli cheese soup by blending cooked broccoli with cheese and milk. For a lighter option, try a clear broth-based soup with broccoli, carrots, and noodles.

Add broccoli florets to vegetable beef stew in the last 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll stay bright green and keep some crunch. Broccoli also works well in minestrone soup with beans and pasta.

For a quick meal, simmer broccoli in chicken broth with garlic and lemon juice. Top with grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add broccoli to potato soup for extra flavor and nutrition.