Garlic & Oil Broccoli: Easy Italian Side Dish Recipe

Updated at: 01/06/2025

This simple Italian-style broccoli recipe is a revelation – a quick, flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times; this recipe relies on the magic of fresh ingredients and minimal effort. The vibrant green broccoli florets, perfectly tender-crisp, are tossed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil that's both surprisingly sophisticated and incredibly easy to make. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the broccoli, the pungent aroma of garlic, and the rich, smooth oil coating every bite – all ready in under fifteen minutes.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or simply enjoying a healthy and delicious side with your favorite protein. Ready to transform a humble vegetable into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below to create this unforgettable Garlic & Oil Broccoli.

Tools Needed

  • Large pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients

  • Broccoli: 3 heads
  • Garlic
  • Olive Oil: ¼ cup + extra for finishing
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Crushed Red Pepper: ½ teaspoon (optional)
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon + to taste
  • Water: 4 ounces

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Broccoli

  • Remove broccoli florets from the heads and cut off the tough ends, ensuring roughly uniform sizes for even cooking.
  • Bring 4 ounces of water to a near boil in a large pan. Add broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green.
  • Drain the broccoli and set aside. Wipe the pan clean.
Remove broccoli florets from the heads and cut off the tough ends, ensuring roughly uniform sizes for even cooking.Bring 4 ounces of water to a near boil in a large pan. Add broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green.Drain the broccoli and set aside. Wipe the pan clean.
Prepare the Broccoli

Step 2. Sauté Garlic and Season

  • Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in the pan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Add crushed red pepper (optional) and cook for a few seconds. Add the cooked broccoli to the pan.
Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in the pan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.Add crushed red pepper (optional) and cook for a few seconds. Add the cooked broccoli to the pan.
Sauté Garlic and Season

Step 3. Combine and Cook Broccoli

  • Toss the broccoli in the garlic oil, adding more olive oil if needed. Add a little water to prevent burning.
  • Season with salt to taste and cook, adding more water if necessary, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Toss the broccoli in the garlic oil, adding more olive oil if needed. Add a little water to prevent burning.Season with salt to taste and cook, adding more water if necessary, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Combine and Cook Broccoli

Step 4. Finish and Serve

  • Turn off the heat. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and serve.

Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe

Tips

  • Use a large pan to ensure even cooking of the broccoli.
  • Adjust the amount of salt based on your preference and the amount of broccoli used.
  • Adding a little water helps prevent burning and keeps the broccoli tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent it from becoming watery.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and oil while it's cooking. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a brighter, zestier flavor.


This simple Garlic & Oil Broccoli recipe is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and minimal fuss. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful side dish as a delicious accompaniment to any meal, and savor the satisfying simplicity of truly great food. Buon appetito!