Zesty Italian Garlic Broccoli

Sometimes the most memorable dishes are the simplest ones. This Zesty Italian Garlic Broccoli is a perfect example — a quick, wholesome side dish that bursts with bright flavors and can elevate any meal.

With tender-crisp broccoli, sautéed garlic, and a refreshing squeeze of lemon, this recipe embraces the essence of Italian cooking: fresh ingredients, minimal fuss, and maximum flavor.

Whether you're serving it alongside pasta, grilled proteins, or enjoying it on its own, this dish is a go-to for weeknights or special gatherings alike.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of broccoli (about 1.5 cups florets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into small, bite-sized florets.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet or pan over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn bright green.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the pan, cover, and steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches your desired tenderness (tender-crisp is ideal).
6. Remove the lid, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for another minute if needed to evaporate any remaining water.
7. Remove the pan from the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccoli and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately as a healthy, flavorful side dish.

Tips & Substitutions

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a little heat.
• Boost the flavor: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a savory twist.
• Swap the veggie: Try this same method with cauliflower or green beans for variety.

Nutrition

Per serving:

• Calories: 95
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 4g

Related Recipe

See the original recipe: "Zesty Italian Garlic Broccoli"

This simple yet vibrant side dish proves that broccoli can be anything but boring. Give it a try at your next meal, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family — they’ll thank you for bringing a little extra zest to the table!