This is one of those dishes that I forget how easily simple fresh ingredients can be elevated to extraordinary with almost no work. Did you know broccoli is filled with protein, 11 grams for every 100 calories? This was my Nana’s recipe, who cooked her broccoli way too long (but was still delicious), then my Momma’s recipe, who cooked her broccoli just right, then leveled up by using all organic and local ingredients to hit this side dish/snack/salad/meal/accompaniment out of the park.
Simple Broccoli with Lemon
1 bunch broccoli, washed, trimmed, and sliced long into spears
1 lemon, juiced
2-3T extra virgin olive oil
1/4t pink salt
1/4t fresh cracked black pepper
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1/2c water
bowl of ice water *optional
In a large pot, heat up the water until boiling. Add the broccoli and steam for 3-4 minutes or until bright green and tender.
Drain the broccoli, reserving the cooking liquid for veggie stock.
To stop the cooking, plunge the steamed broccoli spears into the ice bath and strain the excess water in the sink.
In a bowl, add the bright green broccoli and gently toss the floret spears with the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. The acid from the lemon will discolor the broccoli a little bit but be assured, it is filled with vital nutrients and crispness.
Serve either warm or cold- both are delicious.
The Vegan Love Project 