Discover the versatility of baby broccoli with these 20 delectable recipes, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meals to please your little ones, or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special dinner party, this collection has something for everyone.
From classic comfort foods like pasta and quiche, to international flavors like teriyaki and curry, these recipes showcase the tender sweetness of baby broccoli in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or light and zesty dressings, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these 20 mouthwatering recipes, including Garlic Butter Baby Broccoli Stir-Fry, Lemon Parmesan Roasted Baby Broccoli, and many more. So grab your apron, get cooking, and experience the delicious possibilities of baby broccoli!
Garlic Butter Baby Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy baby broccoli with garlic butter, perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish. With only 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a tasty and healthy meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the baby broccoli under cold water, then cut off the ends.
2. In a large skillet or wok, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the baby broccoli to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Flip the broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Baby Broccoli
Elevate your side dish game with this bright and citrusy take on roasted broccoli! This recipe is a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and crunchy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together broccoli, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the broccoli mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 17-23 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Mushroom Pasta
This recipe combines tender baby broccoli, earthy mushrooms, and al dente pasta in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in baby broccoli and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked mushroom and broccoli mixture with the creamy pasta sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sesame Baby Broccoli
This recipe adds a kick of heat and a nutty flavor to tender baby broccoli, making it a delicious side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 10-12 florets)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the baby broccoli under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes.
4. Toss the baby broccoli with the sesame mixture until well coated.
5. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional quiche, this recipe combines the sweetness of baby broccoli with the creaminess of cheddar cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange baby broccoli florets on the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli.
6. Pour the cream mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Baby Broccoli with Almonds
A sweet and savory twist on classic broccoli, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering. The honey glaze adds a depth of flavor while the toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli (about 12-15 florets)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the broccoli and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the broccoli with the honey glaze until evenly coated.
5. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. While the broccoli is cooking, toast the almonds in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
8. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the roasted broccoli and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Bacon Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of baby broccoli with the smokiness of bacon, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the baby broccoli florets to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the broccoli and toss gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle over the top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Creamy Baby Broccoli Soup
A comforting and creamy soup perfect for a chilly day or as a soothing meal for little ones. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients from the baby broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups baby broccoli florets (about 1 pound)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the baby broccoli, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Shrimp Scampi
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of baby broccoli with the tender bite of shrimp, all wrapped up in a zesty garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Add baby broccoli to skillet and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to skillet and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Return shrimp to skillet and toss with sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Chickpea Curry
This creamy and flavorful curry is a delicious way to get your daily dose of greens and protein. With its mild and comforting taste, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli, trimmed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
5. Add baby broccoli and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Baby Broccoli with Balsamic Drizzle
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this simple and elegant side dish. Grilled baby broccoli is elevated by a rich balsamic drizzle, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. If using garlic, minced it and add to the broccoli mixture.
4. Grill broccoli for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, warm balsamic glaze in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. To serve, place grilled broccoli on a platter and drizzle with warmed balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creamy and comforting twist on classic stuffed shells, featuring tender baby broccoli and a blend of ricotta and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup baby broccoli florets
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add baby broccoli florets to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the broccoli-ricotta mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Beef Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic stir-fry, featuring tender baby broccoli and beef cooked to perfection. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add baby broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional minute, until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Feta Frittata
A delicious and healthy breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any time of the year. This baby broccoli and feta frittata is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional frittatas.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup baby broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in a 9-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Add baby broccoli and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional hash, featuring tender baby broccoli and sweet potatoes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add baby broccoli to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Once sweet potato is done, add it to the skillet with the broccoli mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baby Broccoli Pesto Pasta
A creamy and nutritious pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of baby broccoli with the richness of homemade pesto, all wrapped up in a tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 cup baby broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add baby broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Stir in freshly made pesto (see note) and reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the broccoli-pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To make homemade pesto, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup pine nuts, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth.
Baby Broccoli and Tofu Teriyaki
A flavorful and healthy Japanese-inspired dish, this recipe combines tender baby broccoli with crispy tofu and a sweet teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch baby broccoli
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss baby broccoli with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until crispy.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Pour the sauce over the cooked tofu and stir to coat.
5. Serve roasted baby broccoli with the glazed tofu and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Sausage Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of baby broccoli with spicy sausage and savory potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 3 cups baby broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the baby broccoli and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baby Broccoli and Goat Cheese Tart
A perfect combination of sweet and savory, this tart is a delightful twist on the classic quiche. With tender baby broccoli and creamy goat cheese, it’s an ideal side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and a pinch of salt. Brush the mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the baby broccoli florets on one half of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the broccoli.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press the edges to seal.
7. Brush the top with a little water and make a few slits for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Baby Broccoli and Quinoa Bowl
This nutritious bowl combines the tender sweetness of baby broccoli with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a simple and satisfying package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups baby broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add baby broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide cooked quinoa between bowls and top with baby broccoli mixture.
6. If using feta cheese, crumble on top for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of baby broccoli with these 20 delicious recipes, perfect for every occasion! From savory stir-fries to sweet and tangy salads, this article showcases a range of mouth-watering dishes that highlight the star ingredient – baby broccoli. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something for everyone in this collection. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
