17 Delicious Baby Broccoli Recipes Healthy

Craving something green, nutritious, and utterly delicious? Baby broccoli, with its tender stems and sweet flavor, is the star of our roundup, offering a fresh twist on healthy eating. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or looking for seasonal favorites to brighten your table, these 17 recipes promise to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Let’s dive into the world of baby broccoli and discover your next favorite dish!

Garlic Roasted Baby Broccoli

Want a side dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor? Garlic roasted baby broccoli is your answer. It’s quick, healthy, and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 lb
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Wash and dry baby broccoli thoroughly. Tip: Dry well for crispier results.
3. Toss baby broccoli with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
4. Spread evenly on a baking sheet. Tip: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Roast for 15 minutes, then flip the broccoli. Tip: Flip halfway for even roasting.
6. Roast for another 10 minutes until edges are crispy and stems are tender.

This dish turns out crispy on the edges with a tender center. The garlic adds a punchy flavor. Try serving it with a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.

Baby Broccoli and Cheddar Soup

Ultimate comfort in a bowl, this Baby Broccoli and Cheddar Soup combines simplicity with rich flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick lunch fix.

Ingredients

– Baby broccoli – 2 cups
– Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
– Butter – 2 tbsp
– Flour – 2 tbsp
– Milk – 2 cups
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.
4. Add baby broccoli to the pot, stirring to coat with the sauce.
5. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
7. Season with salt and black pepper, then remove from heat.
8. Let the soup sit for 2 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Zesty and creamy, this soup boasts a velvety texture with the sharpness of cheddar cutting through the earthy broccoli. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or top with extra cheese for a decadent twist.

Sautéed Baby Broccoli with Lemon and Parmesan

Deliciously simple, this dish brings a bright, cheesy finish to tender baby broccoli. Perfect for a quick side or a light main.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 lb
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Lemon – 1, juiced
• Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, grated
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add baby broccoli to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly tender.
3. Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the broccoli. Tip: For even cooking, spread the broccoli in a single layer.
4. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes, until the edges start to crisp.
5. Remove skillet from heat. Drizzle lemon juice over the broccoli. Tip: Fresh lemon juice adds the best flavor.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Tip: Use a microplane for finely grated cheese that melts quickly.
7. Let sit for 1 minute to allow the cheese to slightly melt from the residual heat.

Mildly crispy broccoli pairs beautifully with the sharp Parmesan and zesty lemon. Serve alongside grilled chicken or over pasta for a fuller meal.

Baby Broccoli Pasta with Olive Oil and Chili Flakes

Just when you thought pasta couldn’t get any simpler, this baby broccoli dish proves otherwise. Joyfully toss together these few ingredients for a quick, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 bunch
• Pasta – 8 oz
• Olive oil – 3 tbsp
• Chili flakes – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add pasta to the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
3. While pasta cooks, trim baby broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add baby broccoli and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until bright green.
5. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
6. Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the broccoli. Toss to combine. Tip: Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
7. Season with salt and toss again. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

A perfectly balanced dish with a slight crunch from the broccoli and a gentle heat from the chili flakes. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

Steamed Baby Broccoli with Soy Sauce and Sesame Seeds

Want a quick, healthy side that packs a punch? Steamed baby broccoli with soy sauce and sesame seeds is your go-to.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 lb
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Sesame seeds – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Fill a pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Place baby broccoli in a steamer basket and set over the boiling water. Cover and steam for 5 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp.
3. Transfer steamed broccoli to a serving plate. Drizzle evenly with soy sauce.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a nutty crunch.
5. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy the crisp-tender texture and umami-rich flavor of this dish. Try pairing it with grilled salmon or tofu for a complete meal.

Baby Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this Baby Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 2 cups
• Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat (350°F).
2. Add minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add sliced mushrooms, cook for 5 minutes until they start to brown.
4. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure mushrooms brown nicely.
5. Add baby broccoli, stir to combine with mushrooms.
6. Pour soy sauce over the vegetables, stir well to coat.
7. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender but still crisp.
8. Tip: Cover the pan for 1 minute to steam the broccoli slightly if needed.
9. Remove from heat, serve immediately.
10. Tip: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

Kick back and enjoy the crisp texture of the broccoli paired with the earthy mushrooms. Try serving it over quinoa for a protein-packed twist.

Grilled Baby Broccoli with Balsamic Glaze

Crunchy and vibrant, grilled baby broccoli with balsamic glaze is a simple yet elegant side dish. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 lb
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Balsamic vinegar – ¼ cup
• Honey – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
2. Trim the ends of the baby broccoli and toss with olive oil and salt.
3. Place broccoli on the grill. Cook for 3 minutes per side, until char marks appear.
4. While broccoli grills, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat.
5. Simmer the glaze for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Remove broccoli from grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze immediately.

Nowhere does simplicity shine brighter than in this dish. The smoky char of the broccoli pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy glaze. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or as part of a veggie platter.

Baby Broccoli and Quinoa Salad

Holiday meals or quick lunches, this Baby Broccoli and Quinoa Salad fits any occasion. Packed with nutrients, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish.

Ingredients

– Baby broccoli – 2 cups
– Quinoa – 1 cup
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water for 1 minute to remove bitterness.
2. Cook quinoa with 2 cups water in a pot over medium heat for 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed.
3. While quinoa cooks, chop 2 cups baby broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add baby broccoli, sauté for 5 minutes until bright green.
5. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, sautéed baby broccoli, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and ½ tsp salt.
6. Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tip: For extra crunch, toast the quinoa in the pan before adding water.
Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Oven-free and ready in under 30 minutes, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures. The quinoa’s nuttiness pairs perfectly with the crisp-tender baby broccoli. Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer dish.

Creamy Baby Broccoli and Potato Bake

Gather around for a dish that combines simplicity with comfort. Creamy baby broccoli and potato bake is your go-to for a hearty side or main.

Ingredients

– Baby broccoli – 1 lb – Potatoes – 2 large, peeled and sliced – Heavy cream – 1 cup – Garlic – 2 cloves, minced – Salt – 1 tsp – Black pepper – ½ tsp – Olive oil – 1 tbsp – Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 2. Toss baby broccoli and sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. 3. Arrange vegetables in a single layer in a baking dish. 4. Pour heavy cream evenly over the vegetables. 5. Sprinkle minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese on top. 6. Bake for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown. Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken the cream. Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream for a subtle warmth. Keep it simple or jazz it up with crispy bacon bits on top. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the slight crunch of the broccoli.

Baby Broccoli and Chicken Stir Fry

Simple yet satisfying, this stir fry combines tender chicken with crisp baby broccoli for a quick meal. Skip the takeout and make it in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast – 1 lb, sliced
• Baby broccoli – 2 cups
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger – 1 tsp, grated

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add chicken slices, cook for 5 minutes until no longer pink. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
3. Push chicken to one side, add garlic and ginger to the empty space. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add baby broccoli, stir to combine with chicken and aromatics. Tip: Cut broccoli into uniform pieces for even cooking.
5. Pour soy sauce over the mixture, stir well to coat. Cook for 3 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. Tip: For extra flavor, finish with a splash of sesame oil.

Enjoy the contrast of juicy chicken against the crunchy broccoli. Serve over rice or noodles for a hearty meal.

Baby Broccoli Frittata with Goat Cheese

This baby broccoli frittata with goat cheese is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for any meal. Tender baby broccoli and creamy goat cheese come together in a fluffy egg base.

Ingredients

• Eggs – 6
• Baby broccoli – 1 cup, chopped
• Goat cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
3. Add baby broccoli to the skillet. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
4. In a bowl, whisk eggs, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the broccoli in the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes without stirring.
6. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese evenly over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the edges are golden.
8. Let the frittata cool for 2 minutes before slicing. Tip: Use a rubber spatula to loosen the edges for easy removal.

Key to this frittata’s appeal is its contrast of textures—creamy goat cheese against the tender broccoli and fluffy eggs. Serve it warm with a side of mixed greens for a light lunch or dinner.

Baby Broccoli and Shrimp Scampi

Let’s dive into a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender baby broccoli with succulent shrimp in a garlicky butter sauce.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 lb
• Shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Butter – 4 tbsp
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
• Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Red pepper flakes – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add baby broccoli and cook for 2 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Increase heat to medium-high. Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in lemon juice and salt. Add the blanched baby broccoli, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1 minute to heat through.
5. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the shrimp to ensure even cooking. Tip: Blanching the broccoli preserves its color and crunch. Tip: Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level.

You’ll love the crisp-tender broccoli against the juicy shrimp, all bathed in a rich, garlicky sauce. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Roasted Baby Broccoli with Garlic and Almonds

Perfect for a quick side, this dish combines crisp-tender broccoli with crunchy almonds and aromatic garlic.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 1 lb
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Almonds – ¼ cup, sliced
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Toss baby broccoli with olive oil and salt on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 10 minutes, then flip the broccoli.
4. Add minced garlic and almonds to the baking sheet.
5. Roast for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the almonds are golden.
6. Tip: For even roasting, spread the broccoli in a single layer.
7. Tip: Watch the garlic closely to prevent burning.
8. Tip: Toast almonds separately if you prefer them extra crispy.

Nutty almonds and garlic elevate the broccoli’s natural sweetness. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or mix into pasta for a hearty meal.

Baby Broccoli and Beef Stir Fry

This quick stir-fry packs a punch with tender beef and crisp baby broccoli. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.

Ingredients

• Beef sirloin – 1 lb, thinly sliced
• Baby broccoli – 2 cups
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp
• Red pepper flakes – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add beef sirloin to the skillet. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Toss in baby broccoli. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Tip: High heat is key for keeping the broccoli crisp.
5. Pour soy sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another minute. Tip: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and add it here.
6. Remove from heat. Serve immediately.

Great for pairing with steamed rice or noodles. The beef stays juicy, and the broccoli adds a fresh crunch. Try topping with sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Baby Broccoli and Tofu Curry

Looking for a quick, nutritious meal? This Baby Broccoli and Tofu Curry packs flavor and simplicity in one dish.

Ingredients

• Baby broccoli – 2 cups
• Firm tofu – 14 oz
• Coconut milk – 1 can
• Curry powder – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Press tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess water. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat (350°F). Add tofu cubes. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
3. Add baby broccoli to the pan. Stir-fry for 3 minutes until bright green. Tip: Keep the heat high to retain crunch.
4. Pour in coconut milk and sprinkle curry powder and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer on low heat (250°F) for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Letting it simmer longer deepens the flavors.
6. Remove from heat. Serve hot.

Just right for a cozy dinner, this curry offers a creamy texture with a hint of spice. Pair it with steamed rice or quinoa for a fuller meal.

Baby Broccoli Pizza with Ricotta and Lemon

Here’s a quick, flavorful pizza that’s perfect for a light dinner or a fancy snack. Baby broccoli adds a fresh crunch, while ricotta and lemon bring creamy and zesty notes.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough – 1 lb
• Baby broccoli – 2 cups
• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Lemon zest – 1 tbsp
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Red pepper flakes – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 475°F. Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
2. Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Tip: For a crispier crust, roll it thinner.
3. Toss baby broccoli with 1 tbsp olive oil and salt. Spread evenly over the dough.
4. Dollop ricotta cheese over the broccoli. Sprinkle lemon zest and red pepper flakes on top.
5. Drizzle remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over the pizza. Tip: A little oil helps the toppings brown nicely.
6. Transfer pizza to the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and toppings are slightly charred. Tip: Rotate the pizza halfway for even cooking.
7. Remove from oven. Let cool for 2 minutes before slicing.

Kick back and enjoy the contrast of creamy ricotta against the crisp broccoli. The lemon zest brightens every bite, making it a refreshing twist on traditional pizza. Try serving it with a side of arugula salad for a complete meal.

Baby Broccoli and Salmon Foil Packets

Overwhelmed by weeknight dinners? These baby broccoli and salmon foil packets are your solution. Simple, healthy, and mess-free, they’re ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (6 oz each)
• Baby broccoli – 2 cups
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Lemon – 1, sliced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut four 12-inch squares of aluminum foil.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each foil square.
4. Divide baby broccoli evenly around the salmon on each foil square.
5. Drizzle olive oil over salmon and broccoli.
6. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and black pepper evenly over each portion.
7. Top each salmon fillet with 2 lemon slices.
8. Fold the foil over the salmon and broccoli, sealing the edges tightly to create a packet.
9. Place packets on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes.
10. Carefully open one packet to check if salmon flakes easily with a fork. If not, reseal and bake for 5 more minutes.

Delight in the tender, flaky salmon paired with crisp-tender baby broccoli. The lemon and garlic infuse the dish with bright, savory notes. Serve directly in the foil for a fun, no-plate-needed meal.

Conclusion

Brimming with nutritious and tasty options, our roundup of 17 baby broccoli recipes is your ticket to healthy, flavorful meals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, there’s something here to delight your palate. We’d love to hear which recipes you try and adore—drop a comment below! Don’t forget to share the love by pinning your favorites on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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