Unlock the secret to delicious frozen broccoli with our easy-to-follow guide. Discover our quick-roasting method that brings out the flavor of broccoli with simple ingredients like garlic and olive oil and explore more methods including steaming, microwaving, sautéing, and air frying.
Who knew that frozen broccoli could taste so good? This no-thaw, simple-to-follow recipe leverages the power of high heat for a quick roasting that gives you beautifully tender yet crisp broccoli. But that’s not all! This recipe takes the humble broccoli from ordinary to extraordinary with the simplest of ingredients. Garlic and olive oil mingle and marry their flavors in the oven’s heat, seeping into the florets and turning them into tantalizing morsels. Sprinkle with lemon zest and Parmesan for an optional gourmet touch, and voila! A side dish that tastes as good as it looks and is sure to elevate your everyday meals.
More Cooking Methods
While roasting is our star technique, here are four other quick and easy ways to bring your broccoli to life.
Steaming Broccoli: Place broccoli florets in a steam basket over a pot of boiling water. Cover the pot and let it steam for about 5 minutes or until tender to your preference. Be careful not to overcook it to avoid mushiness. Your broccoli is now ready to be seasoned and enjoyed!
Microwaving Broccoli: Arrange the florets in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of water, and cover. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking. Season as desired and serve warm.
Sautéing Broccoli: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Add your broccoli florets and stir frequently for about 10 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender. A touch of your favorite spices can add a delightful twist.
Air Frying Broccoli: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss your broccoli florets in a bit of oil and your chosen seasonings. Arrange in a single layer in the fryer basket, then cook for 10-12 minutes until crispy, shaking the basket halfway through. A new crunchy take on the humble broccoli!
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can microwave the florets until just thawed and drain off any excess water. Then roast them for only 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option. It gives a cheesy flavor and is rich in vitamins and minerals. You can simply omit the cheese as well.
While microwaving is quick and convenient, it can often lead to a mushier texture once fully cooked. If you prefer your broccoli to have a more tender-crisp texture, roasting or air frying might be the best methods for you.
No, thawing isn’t necessary for this recipe. However, if you do choose to thaw your broccoli first, you should reduce the cooking time by about 4-5 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Chef’s Tip
Make sure you don’t crowd the pan! Giving your broccoli enough space allows the hot oven air to circulate around each floret, ensuring an even roast and a delightful, crispy finish. This simple tip can make the difference between good broccoli and outstanding broccoli, helping you achieve that sought-after golden brown crispness every time. So remember, when it comes to roasting, give your broccoli some room to breathe!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers? No problem. Store your roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method will help maintain that delightful crispiness.
