Chef Boy I Be Illinois Broccoli Italiano
Elevate your vegetable side dishes with "Chef Boy I Be Illinois Broccoli Italiano," a vibrant, flavor-packed recipe that transforms humble broccoli into a showstopping delight. This dish showcases tender broccoli florets sautéed in fragrant olive oil with golden garlic slices and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Bright notes of fresh lemon zest and juice bring a refreshing acidity, perfectly balanced by a sprinkle of rich Parmesan cheese that melts into every bite. Optional toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch, making this a versatile dish that works as a healthy side or a light main course. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's the perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors and quick weeknight convenience.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups (chopped into florets) broccoli crowns
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves (thinly sliced) garlic
- 0.5 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 0.25 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the broccoli by washing it thoroughly and cutting it into bite-sized florets. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the garlic and olive oil mixture.
Season the broccoli with salt and black pepper, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the broccoli steam for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's tender but still crisp.
Remove the lid and add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli and stir until it melts slightly and coats the florets.
Optional: Garnish with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Serve hot as a side dish or pair it with crusty bread for a light, satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
145 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.5 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 601 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8.0 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.8 g | ||
| Protein | 5.3 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 106 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 333 mg | 7% | |
*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.
