This is my favourite way to serve broccoli, it’s super speedy and it tastes great. As it steams the broccoli is scented with garlic – but not overwhelmed by it. It’s a great way to turn a head of broccoli into an aromatic side dish on the table in under ten minutes!

Serves four

  • One head of broccoli
  • A splash of olive oil
  • A clove or two of thinly sliced garlic
  • A splash of water
  • A sprinkle or two of salt and pepper

Cut the broccoli into small florets. Trim the stalk bottom and discard, cut the remaining stalk into thin slices. Splash enough water into the bottom of a small saucepot to cover the bottom about 1/4 inch deep. Add the sliced broccoli stems, oil, garlic and salt then begin heating over a medium high heat. In a few moments the water will start to simmer, the garlic will loose much of its pungency and perfume the steam. Add the broccoli florets and cover the pot with a tight fitting lid.

Steam until the broccoli is tender and bright green, no more than five minutes. The water should finish evaporating just as the broccoli finishes cooking. Remove the pan from the heat and give it a good shake tossing the broccoli with the oil and garlic. Serve immediately.