This easy lemon pepper broccoli is a bright, flavorful side dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. Crisp-tender broccoli florets are seasoned with garlic butter, lemon pepper, and Parmesan, making it a healthy and delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with flavor: A vibrant blend of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan enhances the broccoli.
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from chicken to seafood.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 crowns of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp garlic butter (or regular butter mixed with minced garlic)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon pepper seasoning, to taste
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil and set up a steamer basket. Add the broccoli florets to the basket, cover, and steam for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender. Alternatively, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Season the Broccoli:
- Melt the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the garlic butter. Add the steamed broccoli and toss to coat.
- Add Seasoning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccoli and sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning and garlic salt. Toss well to distribute the flavors evenly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- Swap the seasoning: Use herb blends like Italian seasoning or smoked paprika instead of lemon pepper.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and omit the Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast.
- Roasted version: Roast the broccoli at 425°F for 20 minutes, then toss with lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to maintain the broccoli’s texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Steam or microwave it according to package instructions, then proceed with seasoning.
2. What’s the best way to keep broccoli crisp-tender?
Avoid over-steaming or boiling the broccoli. Check for doneness by piercing it with a fork; it should be tender but still firm.
3. Can I substitute garlic butter?
Yes, use regular butter mixed with 1-2 minced garlic cloves as a substitute.
4. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
The broccoli is best served fresh, but you can steam it ahead of time and reheat it with the garlic butter and seasonings just before serving.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
This broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, steak, or a hearty pasta dish.
7. Can I use fresh lemon zest instead of lemon juice?
Absolutely! Lemon zest adds a bright citrus flavor and works well in this recipe.
8. What’s a good alternative to Parmesan cheese?
Shredded Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great substitutes.
9. How do I keep the broccoli from turning mushy?
Steam or blanch it just until crisp-tender, and avoid overcooking. Toss with seasonings quickly to prevent further cooking.
10. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful medley.
Conclusion
This easy lemon pepper broccoli is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to brighten up any meal. With its zesty lemon, savory garlic butter, and cheesy Parmesan, it’s a quick, healthy, and versatile recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Try it tonight and enjoy a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors!
Print
Easy Lemon Pepper Broccoli Side Dish
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brighten up your meals with this easy Lemon Pepper Broccoli! Crisp-tender broccoli florets are tossed in garlic butter, zesty lemon pepper seasoning, and topped with Parmesan for a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- Produce:
- 2 crowns of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Condiments:
- 2 tbsp garlic butter (or regular butter with minced garlic)
- Baking & Spices:
- Lemon pepper seasoning, to taste
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Dairy:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Season the Broccoli:
- Heat the garlic butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the blanched broccoli and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat the florets evenly in the butter.
- Add Flavor:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccoli. Season with lemon pepper and garlic salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately as a side dish to your favorite main course.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing.
- This recipe works equally well with roasted broccoli—simply toss raw florets with garlic butter, lemon pepper, and garlic salt, then roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American