A quick way to perfectly cook broccoli every time.
My family loves broccoli. I feel lucky about this, since broccoli is a superfood and tastes delicious. Sometimes I sauté it, sometimes I roast it in a hot oven tossed in a bit of olive oil, but sometimes I need a fast, easy, healthy side dish that requires very little fuss or muss, and that’s why I love this microwave broccoli. In minutes, I can have a bright, vibrant, oh-so-good-for-you veggie that goes with nearly every main course.
The microwave has a pretty interesting history. The core of microwave technology was first invented in England in 1940 and used to detect enemy aircraft during World War II. Then, in 1945, American engineer Percy Spencer discovered its ability to heat foods. By 1986, roughly one in four American households owned a microwave oven. Obviously, this appliance has only become more streamlined and modernized as the decades have gone by, and now we can cook almost anything in it, including delicious broccoli.
Crisp and tender, microwave broccoli could not be easier to make. Once you’ve chopped the broccoli into florets and the stems into chunks (yes, eat the stems—they taste wonderful and are very good for you!), it’s just a matter of a few tablespoons of water and a few minutes, and it’s cooked perfectly every time.
One of the things I love most about broccoli is the way it keeps its texture and flavor no matter how I sauce or season it. In this recipe, we recommend butter, salt, and pepper.
Is Microwave Broccoli Healthy?
Broccoli is one of the most healthy vegetables. Not only is it a great source of fiber, but it contains many essential vitamins (like C and K), antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Microwaving broccoli is one of the healthiest ways to prepare it because the short cooking time preserves nutrients that can break down when heated. Some studies have shown that microwaving broccoli preserves higher levels of vitamin C than boiling.
What Are The Most Microwave-Safe Dishes?
The best dishes for microwaving are glass or ceramic. Never put metal or stainless steel in the microwave; these materials can cause sparking or fire, or, in the most extreme cases, the microwave can explode. The jury is still out regarding whether plastics, such as Tupperware, are safe for cooking or even reheating in the microwave, as some plastics, when exposed to heat, can transfer harmful chemicals into the food. So the best bet is to stick with glass and ceramic dishes and to always look for the designation “microwave-safe.”
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Cooked broccoli will last in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days; to freeze the cooked broccoli, pat it dry, and it will last in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Honestly, I can’t think of anything that doesn’t go really well with microwave broccoli. A family favorite is serving it alongside Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders and The Best Mashed Potatoes, but we also love it with Slow-Cooker Beef Brisket and Honey-Garlic Instant-Pot Noodles (what would I do without all of my amazing appliances?). But the thing about this microwave broccoli is that it can be seasoned in so many ways. You could toss it in soy sauce with garlic and ginger and serve it with Asian Salmon, or brighten it up with fresh lemon juice for a perfect pairing with The Best Lemon-Pepper Chicken. And don’t forget that classic combo: Microwave broccoli on top of Vegan Mac And Cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli chopped
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon salted butter optional
- Salt to taste, optional
- Pepper to taste, optional
Instructions
- Place the chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl and add water.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave, using oven mitts to avoid steam burns. Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish.
- If desired, add butter to the broccoli, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment