Serious Eats
In Season: Broccoli, and Cooking It Creatively
Photograph by Allison Hemler on Flickr.
The flowery green vegetable we were all required to hate as children (but worship as healthy adults) is entering peak season. Though it's available year round, it should be at its greenest and cheapest beginning this month. Depending on your location, it may be difficult to find locally, as the majority of the crop is grown in California or Arizona.
Raw broccoli is an acquired taste, so when serving as a hors d'oeuvre, slightly blanch for the best flavor. Whether sauteed, steamed, or roasted, it provides a wealth of nutrients including Vitamin C, fiber, and Vitamin K. Watch out for blanching for too long, as the health benefits are severely diminished.
I can think of nothing better than sitting in front of the TV with a bowl of steamed broccoli lightly dressed in lemon juice, recovering from nights of inhaling cold weather batches of macaroni and cheese and creamy potato soup. Below are some unique side and main dish ideas, which utilize a bit more creativity.
Broccoli Recipes:
- Creamy Broccoli Soup with Cheddar Crisps
- Indian Style Broccoli with Spiced Yogurt
- The Silver Palate's Pureed Broccoli with Creme Fraiche
- Classic Broccoli Piemontese [Epicurious]
- Red-Wine Spaghetti with Broccoli [Epicurious]
- Broccoli Pesto with Fusilli Pasta [101 Cookbooks]
- Broccoli Sandwich [Martha Stewart]