Name: Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head broccoli; 1 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper

Delight in the simple yet savory flavors of this charred skillet broccoli recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of crunchy and tender, with a hint of char lending a smoky depth of flavor. A delectable side that pairs well with a variety of mains, it’s a surefire way to add a nutritional and flavorful punch to your meals.

Photos of Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe

The only ingredient you may not commonly find in your home is the broccoli. While most grocery stores carry broccoli, ensure to pick a head that's firm and vibrant green, with tight florets and no yellow spots. A good-quality olive oil will also enhance the flavor of the dish.

Charred Skillet Broccoli Ingredients

Broccoli: This vegetable is the star of the show. It gives the dish its body and a burst of color, and it’s packed with nutrients.

Olive oil: It provides a rich base for the broccoli to cook in, enhancing the overall flavor and aiding in the charring process.

Salt: This essential seasoning brings out the natural flavors of the broccoli, making it more palatable.

Pepper: It adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish, complementing the other flavors.

One reader, Alfred Mckinnon says:

This charred skillet broccoli recipe is a game-changer! The charred bits add a delicious smoky flavor, and the broccoli turns out perfectly tender. It's a quick and easy way to elevate a simple vegetable into a standout side dish. I can't get enough of it!

Alfred Mckinnon

Key Techniques for Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe

How to prep the broccoli: Rinse the broccoli, trim off and discard the woody lower part of the stem, peel the outer layers of the stem, and cut the stem into small pieces and shred the blossom ends.

How to cook the broccoli: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, and cook the broccoli, stirring occasionally. Season generously with salt and reduce the heat as needed to prevent burning. Cook for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is charred and brown in some parts and soft and sweet in others.

How to season and serve: Taste the broccoli, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and serve hot.

How To Make Charred Skillet Broccoli

Got broccoli in your pantry? Cook this charred broccoli skillet that is perfect to be served as a side dish for every meat and seafood meal.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1medium head broccoli,about 1 pound
1tbspolive oil
salt and pepper,to taste

Instructions

Rinse the broccoli. Trim off and discard the woody lower part of the stem. Cut the remaining stem off from the head. With a vegetable peeler, peel the outer layers of the stem off and discard them.
Cut the tender centers into coins across the grain, then chop those up into little bits. Shred up the blossom ends of the broccoli.
Set a large skillet over medium-high heat for a minute or less. Add the olive oil; when it shimmers, add the broccoli. Stir it around every minute or so. Season generously with salt.
After 5 minutes of cooking, reduce the heat incrementally so the broccoli does not burn.
Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 82.68kcal
Fat: 3.95g
Saturated Fat: 0.53g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.42g
Carbohydrates: 10.39g
Fiber: 4.07g
Sugar: 2.59g
Protein: 4.33g
Sodium: 362.41mg
Calcium: 73.73mg
Potassium: 486.61mg
Iron: 1.18mg
Vitamin A: 47.25µg
Vitamin C: 135.58mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Charred Skillet Broccoli

When charring broccoli, it's important to keep an eye on the heat. Too high and the broccoli will burn before it has a chance to soften. Too low and it won't char properly. The key is to start with a medium-high heat to get the charring process started, then gradually reduce the heat to allow the broccoli to cook through without burning. This technique will give you broccoli that's perfectly charred on the outside and tender on the inside.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Charred Skillet Broccoli

Prep ahead: Chop the broccoli and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking to save time on the day of cooking.

High heat: Use a skillet that heats up quickly to char the broccoli faster, saving you time in the cooking process.

Even pieces: Cut the broccoli into uniform pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate, saving you from having to monitor and adjust individual pieces.

Substitute Ingredients For Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe

broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower has a similar texture and flavor to broccoli when roasted, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable alternative for charring the broccoli in the skillet.

Presenting Your Charred Skillet Broccoli Dish

Elevate the broccoli: Arrange the charred skillet broccoli in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each piece is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts to provide a delightful crunch alongside the tender charred broccoli.
Garnish with a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil: A touch of fragrant, citrusy olive oil will enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the dish.
Utilize vibrant edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and delicate floral notes by garnishing the dish with edible flowers, such as nasturtium or borage blooms.
Present in a modern, minimalist style: Embrace simplicity by arranging the charred skillet broccoli in a clean, contemporary style, allowing the natural beauty of the dish to shine through.

Essential Tools for Making Charred Skillet Broccoli

Chef's knife: A versatile tool for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Skillet: Used for cooking the broccoli, providing a large surface area for even cooking.
Vegetable peeler: Essential for peeling the tough outer layer of the broccoli stem.
Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the broccoli without overcrowding the pan.
Spatula: Used for stirring and flipping the broccoli while it cooks.
Measuring spoon: For accurately measuring and adding the olive oil.
Tongs: Useful for tossing and turning the broccoli while it cooks.

Storing and Freezing Charred Skillet Broccoli

To store leftover charred skillet broccoli, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
When ready to reheat, simply warm the broccoli in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may become slightly softer.
For longer storage, you can freeze the charred broccoli for up to 6 months. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Allow the broccoli to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the broccoli is frozen solid. This process, known as flash freezing, prevents the pieces from clumping together.
4. Once frozen, transfer the broccoli to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
5. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
To reheat frozen charred broccoli, you can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it directly from frozen. To reheat, simply warm the broccoli in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the texture and prevent sticking.

How To Reheat Leftover Charred Skillet Broccoli

Reheat in a skillet: Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover charred broccoli and stir occasionally until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. This method helps to maintain the crispy texture of the broccoli.
Microwave: Place the leftover charred skillet broccoli in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the broccoli is heated through, about 1-2 minutes total.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover charred broccoli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and toss to coat. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is heated through and slightly crispy.
Add to other dishes: Incorporate the leftover charred skillet broccoli into other dishes, such as omelets, frittatas, stir-fries, pasta, or grain bowls. The smoky, charred flavor of the broccoli will add depth and complexity to your meals.
Cold: Enjoy the leftover charred skillet broccoli cold, straight from the refrigerator. The broccoli can be a tasty addition to salads or served as a refreshing side dish alongside sandwiches or wraps.

Interesting Fact About Charred Skillet Broccoli

The charred skillet broccoli recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. It's also high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. By charring the broccoli in a skillet, you can bring out its natural sweetness and add a depth of flavor that makes it a standout side dish. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings and spices. Try adding some garlic or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Is Making Charred Skillet Broccoli at Home Cost-Effective?

This charred skillet broccoli recipe is incredibly cost-effective for a household. Broccoli is an affordable and nutritious vegetable, and the minimal ingredients required, such as olive oil, make it a budget-friendly option. With a rating of 8/10, this recipe offers great value for money, providing a healthy and delicious side dish for approximately $5 for a household of four.

Is This Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe Healthy?

This charred skillet broccoli recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish that offers several benefits:

Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins (especially vitamin C and K), minerals, and fiber
The recipe uses minimal oil, which helps keep the calorie count low
Charring the broccoli enhances its flavor and texture without the need for excessive seasoning or unhealthy additives
The simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to incorporate into a balanced diet

However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:

Use a high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil to maximize the health benefits of the monounsaturated fats
Experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without increasing the sodium content. Some options include:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Red pepper flakes
- Lemon zest
- Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme
Consider adding other nutrient-dense ingredients to the dish, such as:
- Sliced almonds for a boost of healthy fats and protein
- Diced bell peppers for added vitamin C and crunch
- Minced garlic for its anti-inflammatory properties and unique flavor
Serve the broccoli alongside a lean protein source (like grilled chicken or tofu) and a complex carbohydrate (like quinoa or brown rice) to create a well-rounded, balanced meal

Editor's Take on This Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe

This charred skillet broccoli recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic vegetable dish. The method of charring the broccoli brings out a depth of flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the texture. The simple preparation allows the natural flavors of the broccoli to shine, while the olive oil, salt, and pepper enhance the overall taste. The versatility of this dish makes it a perfect side for any meal, and the leftovers can be easily stored for future use. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to elevate the humble broccoli into a delicious and nutritious dish.

Enhance Your Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese before roasting until tender and slightly crispy.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sauté carrots in a honey and butter glaze until they are tender and caramelized, then sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of flavor.

Balsamic Grilled Zucchini: Marinate zucchini in a balsamic vinegar and herb mixture before grilling until tender and slightly charred for a delicious side dish.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: Steam cauliflower until tender, then mash with butter, cream, and seasonings for a creamy and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes.

Similar Recipes to Charred Skillet Broccoli

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Roast asparagus with garlic and parmesan for a flavorful and savory side dish.

Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Create a sweet and tangy glaze for carrots by using honey and balsamic vinegar, perfect for a colorful and tasty side dish.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Marinate chicken in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then grill to perfection for a juicy and flavorful main dish.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: Mix chia seeds with your favorite berries and a touch of sweetness for a healthy and delicious dessert or breakfast option.

Why trust this Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe:

This recipe for charred skillet broccoli is a testament to simplicity and flavor. The use of olive oil enhances the natural taste of the broccoli, while the charring process adds depth and complexity to the dish. The straightforward instructions and minimal ingredients underscore the authenticity of this recipe, making it a trustworthy choice for anyone seeking a delicious and nutritious side dish. With just a touch of salt and pepper, this recipe allows the broccoli to shine, earning the trust of home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.

Share your thoughts on the Charred Skillet Broccoli Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss how you make this dish and any variations or tips you might have!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Can I add other seasonings or spices to the broccoli?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to suit your taste. Garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add extra flavor to the dish.

How do I know when the broccoli is done cooking?

The broccoli is done cooking when it has reduced in volume by about half, and there are no raw pieces left. Some bits will be charred and brown, while others will be soft and sweet.

Can I use a different type of oil for cooking the broccoli?

Yes, you can use different types of oil such as avocado oil or coconut oil. Just keep in mind that different oils have different smoke points, so adjust the heat accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. The charred skillet broccoli can be stored in the refrigerator for about 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months. Simply reheat it before serving.