When it comes to incorporating more nutrients into your diet, there’s no better way than by adding some baby broccoli to the mix. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, baby broccoli is a superfood that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. From sautéed side dishes to main courses, and even as a snack, baby broccoli is incredibly versatile. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the flavor and nutrition of baby broccoli.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon parmesan, to more adventurous options like spicy chili flakes and coconut curry, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for healthy meals, a foodie seeking new flavors to try, or just someone who loves cooking with baby broccoli, you’ll find inspiration in the recipes that follow.
Garlic Butter Sautéed Baby Broccoli
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare baby broccoli, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 2 cups)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the baby broccoli under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Add the baby broccoli to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Baby Broccoli
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful roasted baby broccoli recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of lemon, parmesan, and garlic will elevate the humble vegetable to new heights!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby broccoli
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the baby broccoli and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the broccoli and return to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 14-17 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of greens and protein-packed mushrooms. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 2 cups)
– 1 cup fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the baby broccoli and stir-fry until it’s tender but still crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Stir-fry everything together for another minute to combine flavors.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Creamy Baby Broccoli Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender broccoli, rich cream, and subtle spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups baby broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add broccoli, garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
A delightful brunch or breakfast option that combines tender baby broccoli with creamy cheddar cheese in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange baby broccoli florets on the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure it’s all covered.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Baby Broccoli with Chili Flakes
Add a kick to your meal with this simple and flavorful recipe. This spicy twist on classic steamed broccoli is perfect for a quick and easy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of baby broccoli (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the baby broccoli and cook for 3-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
3. Drain the broccoli and transfer it to a serving bowl.
4. In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chili flakes and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour the spicy oil mixture over the broccoli and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Bacon Pasta
A delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that combines the tender flavor of baby broccoli with the smoky richness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add baby broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with garlic-broccoli mixture and reserved pasta water as needed.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and crispy bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Almond Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of crunchy baby broccoli, toasted almonds, and tangy dressing. A simple and healthy side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
• 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 6-8 stems)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss baby broccoli with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small pan, toast almonds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted baby broccoli, toasted almonds, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Drizzle white wine vinegar over the salad and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baby Broccoli with Garlic Aioli Dip
A delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender baby broccoli florets with a rich and creamy garlic aioli dip, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of baby broccoli (about 1 pound)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the baby broccoli under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Toss the broccoli florets with a pinch of salt and pepper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and mayonnaise.
6. Add lemon juice to the garlic-mayo mixture and stir well.
7. Serve the roasted baby broccoli with the garlic aioli dip.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Shrimp Scampi
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this light and refreshing scampi dish, featuring tender baby broccoli and succulent shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the baby broccoli for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked broccoli and shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Sweet Potato Hash
A deliciously healthy side dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or as a snack for your little ones. This recipe combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tender crunch of baby broccoli, all in one flavorful hash.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, stems removed and florets separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add baby broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
7. Once sweet potatoes are done, combine them with the cooked baby broccoli and stir to combine.
8. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender baby broccoli and creamy goat cheese on a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add baby broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Spread goat cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top with cooked baby broccoli.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with a little water and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry
This quick and nutritious stir-fry recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchtime meal. With tender chicken, crunchy baby broccoli, and savory soy sauce, this dish is a delicious and healthy option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the garlic and baby broccoli; cook for 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Broccoli with Sesame Soy Glaze
Transform baby broccoli into a delicious side dish by drizzling it with a savory-sweet glaze infused with the nutty flavor of sesame and soy.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 12-15 florets)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the baby broccoli under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger until well combined.
4. Toss the baby broccoli with the glaze mixture until evenly coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Spread the glazed broccoli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Feta Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of baby broccoli with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 bunch baby broccoli
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add baby broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each pepper with the broccoli mixture, then sprinkle feta cheese on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Quinoa Bowl
A healthy and flavorful bowl that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender sweetness of baby broccoli, all wrapped up in a simple and satisfying package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 10-12 spears)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add baby broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Combine cooked quinoa with the baby broccoli in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using, crumble feta cheese on top of the quinoa mixture and squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over it.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of baby broccoli with the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or as a light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add baby broccoli to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Garlic Naan Pizza
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of baby broccoli with the pungency of garlic on a crispy naan crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of naan bread
– 2 cups mixed baby broccoli florets
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the naan bread to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, toss together baby broccoli and minced garlic.
4. Brush the naan with olive oil and top with the broccoli mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top (if using).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the broccoli is tender.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Coconut Curry
This creamy and flavorful curry is a perfect way to get your little ones to eat their greens! Made with tender baby broccoli, aromatic spices, and rich coconut milk, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of baby broccoli (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the baby broccoli, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Pineapple Fried Rice
This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the crunch of baby broccoli, all wrapped up in a flavorful fried rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup baby broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the baby broccoli and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Push the broccoli mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it with a spatula.
6. Mix the egg with the broccoli mixture.
7. Add the cooked rice, diced pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, until the rice is well coated and heated through.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering baby broccoli recipes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! From classic garlic butter sautéed baby broccoli to innovative dishes like creamy baby broccoli soup and spicy baby broccoli with chili flakes, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for special occasions, this collection of recipes is sure to delight.
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