Food
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Ways to Cook Broccoli?

B. Miller
B. Miller

Broccoli is a healthy and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in a number of different ways. Some of the most common and healthiest ways to cook broccoli are to steam it in the microwave or in a double boiler; simply to boiling it for a few minutes in a pot of water is another approach. It may also be sauteed with a little bit of olive oil, or roasted in the oven. Some people will even just eat it raw in a simple salad or with a dip. There are a number of different recipes illustrating different ways to cook broccoli, including blending it in order to make broccoli soup.

When preparing a healthy vegetable for dinner, most people don't want to wreck its nutritional benefits by preparing it in an unhealthy way, such as by frying it. Broccoli can be prepared in a number of different ways that are flavorful and delicious, though still healthy. Keep in mind that although one of the most common ways to cook broccoli is to steam it and then drench it in cheese sauce, this really increases the calorie and fat content of the dish, so it may be a good idea to be judicious with the cheese.

Grated Parmesan cheese can be used to top roasted broccoli.
Grated Parmesan cheese can be used to top roasted broccoli.

The easiest way to cook broccoli is to steam it. It may be placed in a glass dish with a little bit of water and then microwaved for a few minutes, or put in a double boiler on the stove and steamed that way. Simply boiling a pot of water, and throwing the broccoli in for a few minutes, will also cook it to perfection in a healthy way. Just be sure not to overboil it, because the broccoli will begin to soften, and will eventually just fall apart in the water. Generally, when broccoli is served, it should still be slightly crisp and a bright green color.

Broccoli may be steamed.
Broccoli may be steamed.

Sauteing or stir-frying are two other common ways to cook broccoli. It may be quickly sauteed in a pan with some olive oil and spices, often with other fresh vegetables. To stir-fry broccoli, soy sauce is often used to add extra flavor. Though many people don't think of it, broccoli can also be roasted in the oven; topping it with a little bit of olive oil, fresh minced garlic, and some grated parmesan cheese, and then cooking it under the broiler will give it a delicious and robust flavor. In addition, another favorite way to cook broccoli is to blend it into a nutritious soup.

Discussion Comments

jonrss

Does anyone have a recipe for a really good broccoli slaw? I have been craving this all summer but I need a new recipe. Most of the ones I have tried in the past are so heavy with mayo and they basically taste like cole slaw. I am looking for something different. Any suggestions?

clippers

When I was a kid my mom always used to cook broccoli in cheese sauce and to this day that is my favorite way to eat it. There was even a time when that was the only way I would eat it but I have grown up a little since then.

And I don't make it the way my mom made it. I think she used Velveeta cheese sauce but I make my own from good cheeses. It is the same dish in spirit, but I think mine tastes a lot better.

disciples

I have had many, many delicious broccoli dishes over the years but for me the simple recipes are the best. Give me some really good fresh broccoli cooked in butter with fresh minced garlic and I will be in heaven.

Broccoli has such a rich and unique flavor, it doesn't need much else to compliment it. If it is quality broccoli and it is well prepared it stands on its own.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Grated Parmesan cheese can be used to top roasted broccoli.
      By: Bert Folsom
      Grated Parmesan cheese can be used to top roasted broccoli.
    • Broccoli may be steamed.
      By: imagesab
      Broccoli may be steamed.
    • Some people choose to eat broccoli raw.
      By: Nitr
      Some people choose to eat broccoli raw.
    • Freshly harvested broccoli can be steamed and frozen for meals during the winter months.
      By: Goran Bogicevic
      Freshly harvested broccoli can be steamed and frozen for meals during the winter months.
    • Cooking broccoli in a stir-fry is a common way to prepare it.
      By: Joshua Resnick
      Cooking broccoli in a stir-fry is a common way to prepare it.