Tender Braised Broccoli with Garlic and Olive Oil
Broccoli slowly cooked in plenty of olive oil with garlic until irresistibly soft and tender. A simple Italian inspired side dish that is delicious on its own, with bread, or tossed with pasta.
If you usually prefer broccoli crisp and bright green, this recipe takes it in a completely different direction. The broccoli is gently cooked in garlic infused olive oil until very soft, allowing it to soak up all that savory flavor.
The key is plenty of olive oil and low heat. As the broccoli softens, its natural sweetness comes forward and the texture becomes almost creamy. Serve it as a warm side dish, pile it onto toasted bread, or toss it through pasta for an easy meal.
What you'll need
- Broccoli: 1/2 head
- Olive oil: 4 tbsp or more
- Garlic, finely minced: 1 clove
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
How to make it
Cut or break the broccoli into fairly small florets. Place in a microwave safe dish, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave at 600W for about 2 minutes 30 seconds.
Add the minced garlic and olive oil to a frying pan and warm over low heat. Once the garlic begins to gently sizzle, add the broccoli and salt. Cook slowly over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli becomes very soft and tender. Serve once it reaches a melt in the mouth consistency.
Tips
- Keep the heat low. Gentle cooking softens the broccoli without burning the garlic.
- Be generous with the olive oil. The broccoli absorbs it as it cooks, creating a richer, almost creamy texture.
- Try serving it on toasted bread or buns, or toss it with freshly cooked pasta for an easy variation.
What to drink with it
