When it came time to figuring out which dish to feature first for this month’s green-themed recipes for St.Patrick’s day, I knew it would be this one. This easy garlic broccoli recipe uses fresh or frozen broccoli and can be made in a snap any day of the week, adding some healthy green veggies to your next meal.

Broccoli is one vegetable that I was never really fond of growing up. It was always either too mushy or lackluster in taste that I was never a fan of it; no amount of butter or sauce could do the trick of getting me to eat it. However, there was one exception: beef & broccoli. That is a story for another time, but for now, let’s get back to the easy garlic broccoli recipe and how everything changed one fine day.

One day, my Mom was speaking with a friend who mentioned adding garlic to broccoli would make for a tasty dish. Needless to say, I was skeptical. Very skeptical. I mean, I had gone my whole life never really liking them. Could one ingredient really change things? The answer is a big resounding yes, yes it can. 

It took these mini tree-looking veggies from tasteless to tasty in one fell swoop and created a side dish I couldn’t seem to get enough of. The garlic seemed to transform the broccoli infusing every fibre with garlicky goodness. I knew right then I had a side dish that would be sticking with me for the long haul. It goes to show you the power of pairing the right ingredients together; it truly creates magic.

This side dish is not only quick and easy to make. It is highly nutritious and is gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan friendly. It can take any broccoli hater and turn them into a broccoli lover. I am proof of that. Still wary? Why don’t you give it a try and you’ll see for yourself. Trust me, this dish will be quite a welcome addition to your lunch or dinner repertoire.

Sprinkles recipe fun facts:

• BROCCOLI – is a great source of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals and can aid in digestion.
• GARLIC – helps reduce heart disease and boosts athletic energy levels to prevent post-workout fatigue.
• OLIVE OIL – high in monosaturated fats that make it heat resistant and a great oil for cooking.

Shall we give this recipe a whirl? Let’s go!

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Easy Garlic Broccoli

This easy garlic broccoli recipe is packed with nutrition and taste and can be made within minutes, the perfect addition to your next meal.

Author Priscilla S

Ingredients

Ingredients

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 4-5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• ¼ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ tbsp olive oil (or oil of choice)

Equipment

• wok (or frying pan)
• large spoon
• measuring spoons
• knife
• cutting board
• large bowl

Instructions

Prep

• Cut the large stem of the head of the broccoli and cut into small florets, wash well, and set aside.
• Peel the garlic and slice into thin slivers, it can be lengthwise or small discs, whichever you prefer, set aside.

Cooking Time

• Heat your wok or pan to medium-high and add oil. Once the oil is heated up, add the garlic, you should hear a sizzling sound. Let the garlic dance around in the oil for 30-60 seconds to help infuse the oil with its garlicky goodness.
• It's now time to add the broccoli. The oil may splatter a bit because of the high heat and water from the broccoli, so please be careful. Mix well. Add a splash of water, it helps the broccoli to steam. Cover with a lid for 1-2 minutes.
• Add seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Continue mixing it periodically.
• After 3-5 minutes, your broccoli is ready to serve! If using frozen broccoli it will take a few more minutes. Once the broccoli is soft and tender it's ready. Taste test it to make sure the seasoning is as you like, feel free to adjust to your taste.

Notes

It is excellent topped on some rice, paired with fish, chicken, or honestly just on its own. It's that good!

NOTE: Store in the fridge in an air-tight container for 1-2 days, that is if it lasts that long!

Hope you enjoy these little greens as much as I do!

The post Easy Garlic Broccoli {gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan-friendly} first appeared on Pure Sprinkles.