Broccoli and I have had a bit of a love-hate relationship over the years. Sometimes, it’s just. .
. there, you know? But then, I discovered the magic of grilling it—transforming those little green trees into charred delights with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
It’s like broccoli’s had a makeover, and suddenly, it’s the star of the show.
Steps
- Cut the broccoli into large 4-inch florets, trimming the long sides to create flat edges for optimal grill contact.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for cooking.
- In a large bowl, coat the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, using your hands to ensure even coverage.
- Place the broccoli on the grill and cook for 5 to 8 minutes on one side until char marks form.
- Flip the broccoli, tent it with foil, and continue grilling for an additional 3 to 6 minutes until it is tender and well charred.
- If necessary, lower the heat to avoid over-charring while ensuring the broccoli becomes tender.
- Once off the grill, drizzle the broccoli with lemon juice and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets, cut into large 4-inch pieces
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes
FAQ
- How can I ensure the broccoli becomes tender while grilling?
- To achieve tender grilled broccoli, tent the florets with foil during the last few minutes of cooking. This technique traps moisture, allowing the broccoli to steam and become crisp-tender throughout.
- What should I do if the broccoli chars too quickly?
- If the broccoli is charring faster than it is becoming tender, lower the grill’s heat. A reduced temperature will allow the broccoli to cook through without burning the exterior.
- What are some serving suggestions for grilled broccoli?
- Grilled broccoli pairs well with various dishes such as veggie burgers, grilled tofu, or summery pasta. Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
- How should I store leftover grilled broccoli?
- Store any leftover grilled broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, or incorporate it into salads, sandwiches, or frittatas.
- Can I use other garnishes on grilled broccoli?
- Yes, adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can complement the flavors of grilled broccoli beautifully.
Tips
- Use Foil for Tenderness: Tent the broccoli with foil during the last few minutes of grilling. This traps moisture and helps the broccoli become tender while maintaining a nice char on the outside.
- Control the Heat: If you notice the broccoli charring too quickly, adjust the grill to a lower temperature. This allows the inside to cook through without burning the exterior.
- Enhance Flavor with Finishing Touches: Before serving, add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a burst of brightness and a hint of heat.
- Prepare Broccoli for Even Cooking: Trim the broccoli into large 4-inch florets with flat sides. This ensures they make good contact with the grill grates, promoting even cooking and charring.
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan: If you don’t already have a grill or a grill pan, you may need to consider purchasing one to make this recipe.
- Grill Basket (optional): While not required for this specific method, a grill basket can be useful for grilling vegetables in general.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the broccoli florets on the grill.
- Aluminum Foil: While commonly found at home, if you don’t have any, you might need to purchase some for tenting the broccoli.
