Pan-Seared Broccoli: A Quick, Tasty Side

Pan-seared broccoli is a quick and easy dish to prepare as a side for almost any dinner meal. It is also a versatile dish that can be paired with chicken, fish, or pasta.

To make pan-seared broccoli, first, wash and cut the broccoli into medium-sized florets, leaving a good amount of the stem. Next, heat some olive oil or vegetable oil in a large pan. Add the broccoli, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for a few minutes until the broccoli is browned. Then, add some water to the pan to steam the broccoli and continue cooking until it is tender. Finally, serve the broccoli immediately while it is still hot.

How to cut broccoli for pan-searing

Step 1:

First, wash your broccoli. Then, cut off a few inches of the end of the broccoli stalk. Stand the head of broccoli up on the cut edge of the stem. Using a large chef's knife, cut off the broccoli floret where its stem meets the larger stalk. This will leave you with long-stemmed florets that are aesthetically pleasing and cook evenly.

Step 2:

Slice any very large florets in half. You can do this by cutting the base of the stem of the large florets in half and then pulling the floret apart with your fingers. Try to make the florets as similar in size as possible, which will result in the most even cooking.

Step 3:

The stalk is also edible! If you want to include it, slice off the irregular outer skin on all four sides to make a large rectangle. Then, cut that into long matchsticks. You can cook these along with the florets or use them in stir-fries or with a dip.

Step 4:

Slice the broccoli tops into florets that are about as wide as your index finger. This will ensure they cook evenly and stay bright green.

Step 5:

Trim off and discard the tough ends of the stalk. Slice the floret tops away from the tender stem.

Step 6:

Slice the stem crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces.

Tips:

• If you are cutting the broccoli in advance, it will stay freshest if you store it in an airtight container in the fridge with a damp paper towel.
• If you want to reduce the bitterness of the broccoli stalks, try peeling the outermost green layer with a vegetable peeler before chopping.
• Avoid using broccoli stems in long-simmered vegetable stocks as they can make the broth bitter.

The best oils for pan-searing broccoli

Pan-searing broccoli is a great way to add flavour and texture to this nutritious vegetable. To do it successfully, you'll need to use the right oil. Here are some of the best oils for pan-searing broccoli:

Olive oil

Olive oil is a great choice for pan-searing broccoli. It has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand the high temperatures needed to sear broccoli without smoking or burning. Olive oil is also a healthy option, as it is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It adds a subtle fruity flavour to the broccoli, making it a versatile choice for various dishes.

Vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is another good option for pan-searing broccoli. It has a neutral flavour and a high smoke point, making it suitable for high-heat cooking. Vegetable oil is also usually less expensive than other types of oil, making it a cost-effective choice.

Avocado oil

Avocado oil is a healthy, flavourful option for pan-searing broccoli. It has a high smoke point and is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Avocado oil has a mild flavour that won't overpower the taste of the broccoli.

Peanut oil

Peanut oil is a good choice if you want to add a nutty flavour to your pan-seared broccoli. It has a strong flavour and a high smoke point, making it suitable for high-heat cooking. Peanut oil is also a healthy option, as it is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

Tips for pan-searing broccoli

When pan-searing broccoli, it's important to cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking. It's also crucial not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the broccoli to steam instead of sear. Finally, be sure to preheat your pan before adding the oil and broccoli to get a good sear.

Seasoning and flavour combinations

The key to a delicious pan-seared broccoli dish is to not stir the broccoli during the first few minutes of cooking. This will help create a perfect brown crust. You can also add a splash of water a few minutes into cooking, as broccoli is rather tough and this will help it become tender without the pan becoming dry.

Italian Style

Add a little dried oregano and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Asian Style

Reduce the salt and add a splash of soy sauce. You can also add minced fresh ginger, a splash of rice vinegar, or Sriracha hot sauce.

Spicy

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

With Meat and Fish

Pan-seared broccoli is a great side dish for meat and fish. Try it with honey garlic chicken, lemon and herb chicken, beef, or salmon.

With Other Vegetables

You can also add broccoli to a stir-fry with other vegetables, such as a chicken and broccoli stir-fry.

With Pasta

Broccoli is a great addition to pasta dishes. Try tossing it with cooked pasta or a creamy Alfredo sauce.

With Cheese

Add some grated Parmesan, or a thick dollop of tangy tahini dressing.

With Nuts

Broccoli tastes great with crunchy toppings such as sliced or chopped almonds, or other nuts.

With Bread

Try adding some breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.

How long to pan-sear broccoli

Pan-searing broccoli is a quick and easy way to cook this nutritious vegetable. The key to a perfect pan-fried broccoli is to avoid overcooking it, which can result in mushy, unappetizing broccoli.

Preparation

Before pan-searing broccoli, it is important to prepare the vegetable. Start by rinsing the broccoli under cool water and drying it thoroughly. Then, cut the broccoli into medium-sized florets, leaving a good amount of the stem attached. This ensures that the broccoli retains a nice shape and cooks evenly.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for pan-seared broccoli is relatively short, taking just a few minutes on each side. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Heat a large skillet or frying pan on medium-high heat. Add a thin coating of oil with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed oil or olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the broccoli to the pan. It is best to arrange the broccoli in a single layer, if possible, to ensure even cooking.
• Let the broccoli cook undisturbed for about 5-8 minutes, depending on your stove. This will allow the broccoli to sear and develop a golden brown colour.
• After the broccoli is browned on one side, stir it around and add any additional seasonings, such as garlic, chilli, or red pepper flakes.
• Cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for about 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is fork-tender.

Serving

Pan-seared broccoli is now ready to be served! It is best served hot and can be paired with a variety of main dishes, such as chicken, fish, or pasta. Enjoy!

What to serve with pan-seared broccoli

Pan-seared broccoli is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of other foods. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

Proteins

If you're looking for a protein to serve with your broccoli, try chicken, fish, or shrimp. For example, you could serve it with some baked Greek lemon chicken or honey garlic shrimp.

Carbohydrates

For a carbohydrate option, pan-seared broccoli goes well with pasta. You could try it with pesto pasta, spaghetti aglio e olio, mac and cheese, or a vegan pasta dish.

Vegetables

As a side dish, pan-seared broccoli can be served with other vegetables, such as roasted Brussels sprouts, lemon-roasted cauliflower, or roasted butternut squash.

Specific Recipes

There are also some specific recipes that go well with pan-seared broccoli, such as:

• Sushi: Try it as a side with takeout sushi or your own homemade version.
• Grain bowl: Add it to a rice or grain bowl with other vegetables and proteins.
• Frittata: Toss it into a veggie frittata or mini frittata muffins.
• Buddha bowl: Start with a base of cooked quinoa, farro, wheat berries, or brown rice, add proteins and pan-seared broccoli, and finish with a sauce.

Frequently asked questions