How to Steam Broccoli is a guide to get crisp, bright green broccoli every time without a steamer. Using simply water and broccoli, this easy and nutritious cooking method is a breeze to master.
It’s incredible when a simple vegetable, like broccoli gets teamed up with a delicious meal. This recipe is a gem to master as this vegetable dish is quick and healthy!
And when your kids love it, you know it’s coming out of the kitchen often. My kids will always eat steamed broccoli and I serve it possibly more often than I should, simply because it is so easy.
How to steam broccoli without a steamer:
On the stove, broccoli is quickly steamed in a pot with about an inch or two of boiling water. The pot being used to cook the broccoli in requires a lid so that the steam doesn’t escape.
If you’re using foil in lieu of lid, park some oven mitts on so the steam doesn’t cause a burn.
To steam broccoli in 3-3 1/2 minutes I find it best to cut the broccoli into what might be considered smaller bite sized pieces, but what I consider perfectly sized, so that you can enjoy a bite of broccoli with some of whatever else you might be eating it with.
How to steam broccoli in the microwave:
To steam broccoli in the microwave is a great way to quickly steam broccoli without a stove. And, steaming broccoli in the microwave results in less dishes as it’s simply a bowl or a container of sorts.
Microwave, container, water, and broccoli is all that is needed to effectively steam broccoli in the microwave.
Broccoli should always be cut into bite size pieces. This will cut down the amount of cooking time for the broccoli as well as make it more appealing (especially to young children). You can see in the photo above exactly how big I cut the broccoli I serve my 3 young kids.
We enjoy steamed broccoli finished a few different ways. A tablespoon of butter or olive oil and salt tossed with freshly steamed broccoli is simple, but not basic. Sprinkle with some grated cheddar cheese for the cheese lover in the family. Or squeeze a slice or 2 of lemon on top for a bright fresh flavour.
I add steamed broccoli to tons of different meals, broccoli is one versatile vegetable! If we’re short on a veggie, it’s likely steamed broccoli is making an appearance.
It’s quick, easy, and packs a hefty punch with nutrients. I’ve got broccoli as a side dish for lots of different meals – check them below for more inspiring recipes.
More broccoli side dish recipes:
- Broccoli Salad
- Broccoli Fritters
- Broccoli Tater Tots
- Simple Roasted Broccoli
- Cold Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup
- Cheesy Broccoli Gratin
How to Steam Broccoli is a guide to get crisp, bright green broccoli every time without a steamer.
- 1 large head broccoli, florets cut into small bite sized pieces
- water
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter, optional for garnish
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice, optional for garnish
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Place 1-2″ of water in the bottom of a pot with a lid and heat over high heat until boiling. Add broccoli and place lid on top.
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Cook for 3-4 minutes. Carefully and quickly place broccoli in a colander (strainer) and run cold water over broccoli.
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Serve warm, tossed with optional garnishes if required.
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Place broccoli and 1-2″ of water in a microwave-proof container and loosely cover with lid or a plater cover.
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Microwave for 3-4 minutes. Carefully place broccoli in a colander (strainer) and run cold water over broccoli.
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Serve warm, tossed with optional garnishes if required.
Enjoy! xo
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One of my family favs!
Ours too! Steamed broccoli is such a healthy and easy side dish.
Thanks for sharing this! Love how it stays green and does not look too mushy. Will start doing this way from now on.
Yes! Crisp and bright green broccoli is definitely the way to go.
Why would you run cold water over it? I steam mine the same as you do but serve it straight from the pan without cold water and it is nice and hot.
It’s a quick rinse to stop it from cooking (no soggy broccoli here thanks!) and from being too hot for the kiddos.
Awesome! This steamed broccoli looks amazingly delicious and yummy! A healthy meal that everyone would love and enjoy! The best part is that we can steam broccoli without using a steamer and that’s a big thumbs up!
That’s great!
Best way to cook broccoli, hands down! My family loves broccoli and this is one of my go to ways to make it! They love some Parmesan cheese on top.
Yum! Love a cheesy topping too!
I love how simple to make this, it is so easy!
Thanks for sharing this with us!
SO easy and healthy too!