How to Cook Broccoli 5 Different (and Delicious!) Ways

To squeeze more greens into your meals, look no further than the humble broccoli.

Broccoli provides fiber and vitamin C — “essentially a lot of good stuff that most people don’t get enough of,” says Brittany Crump, MPH, RD at Savor the nutrition.

This versatile vegetable can be used to make creative recipes like broccoli tots, broccoli gratin or egg cups.

Plus, broccoli is easy to find at any grocery store, in any season — so once you know how to cook broccoli, it can be a year-round staple in your meal plan.

Whether you like to eat broccoli steamed, sautéed or roasted, check out these easy and delicious ways to reap its nutritious benefits.

How to clean and prepare broccoli

When buying broccoli, look for:

• Green, uniform color without yellow or brown spots
• Firm and tight crown of florets
• Elastic uppers without slack
• No major weak spots that could indicate rot

After cleaning your broccoli head, cut to separate the stem from the crown. Cut the crown into smaller florets and cut the stem into slices.

To save time, you can also buy pre-cut or frozen broccoli.

Each of the cooking methods below is for broccoli, so keep in mind that frozen broccoli may take longer to cook.

Also, you may need to repeat each method if your cookware isn’t large enough to hold all the broccoli you want to make.

How to cook broccoli in the microwave

You might be wondering: is it better to boil or microwave broccoli?

It is best to microwave as vegetables tend to lose nutrients in the cooking water when they are boiled.

Just be aware that microwaved broccoli can be quite bland, so you can serve it with a delicious dipping sauce like tofu Caesar dressing or golden ranch dip.

1. Load the broccoli florets and 3-4 tablespoons of water into a large bowl or microwave-safe baking dish.
2. Cover the bowl or dish with a large plate.
3. Microwave on high power for 3½ minutes. Use a fork to carefully check if the broccoli is tender enough for you. Otherwise, microwave for another minute.
4. Add salt, pepper, 1 tsp. butter or olive oil (per serving) and other seasonings of your choice. Toss to coat and enjoy.

How to Steam Broccoli

How to steam broccoli on the stove? All you need is a large pot, a steamer basket and a little water to make tender, steamed broccoli.

1. Place your steamer basket in a larger pot and add an inch of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil. Use tongs to gently transfer the broccoli florets into the steamer basket. Cover with a lid and steam for 5-6 minutes.
3. Use a fork to check for doneness. Remove the florets.
4. Add salt, pepper, 1 tsp. butter or olive oil (per serving) and other seasonings of your choice. Toss to coat and enjoy.

How to Blanch Broccoli

Blanching means scalding broccoli in boiling water, but only for a short time – about half the time it takes to steam broccoli.

Blanched broccoli is perfect for those who prefer slightly crispier broccoli. This method also helps keep broccoli fresh and green before adding it to a stir-fry.

1. Bring a large saucepan two-thirds full of water to a boil.
2. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of salt.
3. Add broccoli and cook 2 to 3 minutes. While the broccoli is boiling, partially fill a large bowl with ice and water. Drain broccoli and add to ice bath; let stand 5 to 10 minutes or until cool. Drain; put aside.
4. Reserve the blanched broccoli for another recipe. Or add salt, pepper, 1 tsp. butter or olive oil (per serving) and other seasonings of your choice. Toss to coat and enjoy.

How to sauté broccoli

A simple stir-fry of broccoli works well as a side dish for any protein dinner – like beef, pork, chicken, or seafood. You’ll need about one to 1½ lbs. of broccoli.

1. Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add your cut broccoli florets and stems. Cook 4 to 5 minutes.
3. Fry 3 finely chopped cloves of garlic for about 20-30 seconds.
4. Add ½ cup chicken broth plus salt and pepper, to taste. Cook another 5 minutes.
5. Drizzle with sesame oil (optional). Serve immediately.

To make stir-fry broccoli better, try this tasty beef and broccoli recipe. Adding more vegetables to your stir-fry will also make it more colorful and appetizing.

Want to branch out from broccoli? Try sautéed broccoli.

Broccoli rabe actually belongs to a different family than broccoli – it is leafier with a slightly bitter taste.

There’s also broccolini or baby broccoli, which is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli – it’s smaller, more tender, with a slightly sweeter taste.

How to Roast Broccoli

What’s the best way to cook broccoli? Roasted broccoli gets our vote!

In the oven, broccoli florets develop crispy, caramelized edges while remaining fork tender inside. You will need approximately one to 1½ lbs. of broccoli.

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F.
2. Toss the broccoli florets with 2 tbsp. of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of sugar and a little salt and pepper.
3. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Add the broccoli to the baking sheet and bake to roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Remove from the oven and let the broccoli cool. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings (like toasted pine nuts, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese) and serve.

And try these Beachbody broccoli recipes!

Vegan cauliflower and broccoli rice gratin

Breaded chicken fillets with broccolini

FIXATE Beef and Broccoli

Want more expert nutrition and cooking advice? Visit BODNUtrition.com to find out how Beachbody nutrition programs and products can help you lead a healthier life.