Elevate your vegetable game with this vibrant and flavorful Broccoli Balsamico recipe, a quick and easy side dish that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect for any meal. Tender-crisp broccoli florets are blanched to preserve their bright green hue, then coated in a luscious balsamic glaze infused with garlic, honey, and a hint of spice from optional red pepper flakes. This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, with a subtle caramelized finish from its quick sauté in olive oil. Ready in just 20 minutes, Broccoli Balsamico is a versatile crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a standalone vegetarian option. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as an elegant addition to your holiday table!
Wash and trim the broccoli florets, ensuring they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop cooking, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Reduce the heat to low and add balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine, allowing the glaze to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add the drained broccoli florets to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the balsamic glaze.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is heated through and lightly caramelized.
Remove from heat and transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Serve immediately as a side dish or enjoy on its own.
Calories |
476 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.1 g | 36% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 156 mg | 7% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 49.1 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.5 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 27.9 g | ||
| Protein | 18.5 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 266 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 5.3 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 123 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.