Description
A flavorful, spiced broccoli dish steamed to tender perfection and tossed with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, olive oil, and fresh lemon zest. This versatile side can be served chilled and kept in the fridge for up to four days, making it a convenient addition to various meals like lemon orzo with trout or roasted lemony broccoli flatbreads.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 heads of broccoli
Spices & Flavorings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Cut the florets off the heads of broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Trim and finely chop the stems as well to ensure no part is wasted.
- Steam the broccoli: Place the florets and chopped stems into a colander or metal steamer and set it over a pan of simmering water. Cover the colander or steamer and steam the broccoli for 10-12 minutes until it is just tender enough to be pierced with a sharp knife.
- Drain and dry: Remove the broccoli from the steamer and allow it to steam-dry to get rid of excess moisture, which preserves texture and flavor.
- Season the broccoli: Transfer the steamed broccoli into a large airtight container. Drizzle over the olive oil, sprinkle the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and lemon zest. Season well with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine ingredients: Gently shake or toss the container to evenly coat all the broccoli pieces with the spices and oil mixture.
- Chill and store: Set the seasoned broccoli aside in the fridge until needed. It can be kept chilled for up to four days, making it a convenient prep-ahead side dish.
- Serving suggestions: Use this spiced broccoli to complement dishes such as lemon orzo with trout, or roasted lemony broccoli and mascarpone flatbreads for added flavor and nutrition.
Notes
- This recipe uses steaming as the primary cooking method, which preserves nutrients and keeps the broccoli tender with a slight crunch.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control heat level according to your preference.
- The broccoli can be served cold or gently warmed before serving.
- For best flavor, prepare the broccoli a few hours ahead to allow the spices to infuse well.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to four days in an airtight container.
- To add texture, consider sprinkling toasted nuts or seeds when serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: spiced broccoli, steamed broccoli, smoked paprika broccoli, easy vegetable side, healthy side dish, Mediterranean side
