Soft-Cooked Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon

1. 1
   prep · ~5 min

   Prep the broccoli and garlic.

   1.Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets, peel the stems and slice them into 0.5 cm thick rounds.

   2.Thinly slice the garlic cloves.

   3.Zest and juice the lemon, keeping zest and juice separate.
2. 2
   boil · ~4 min

   Blanch the broccoli in salted water.

   1.Bring a large pot of water with salt to a rolling boil over high heat.

   2.Add broccoli florets and sliced stems. Cook until just tender but still bright green, about 3 to 4 minutes.

   3.Drain immediately in a colander and shake off excess water.

   TIPDon't overcook — the broccoli should be soft but still hold its shape. Avoid covering the pot to keep the green color vibrant.
3. 3
   saute · ~2 min

   Sauté the garlic in olive oil.

   1.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.

   2.Add sliced garlic and cook gently, stirring often, until fragrant and just starting to turn pale gold, about 1 to 2 minutes.

   TIPKeep the heat low — garlic burns quickly and turns bitter. You want it soft and sweet, not brown.
4. 4
   mix · ~1 min

   Toss broccoli with garlic and lemon.

   1.Add the drained broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil.

   2.Toss well to coat all the florets.

   3.Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.

   4.Sprinkle with lemon zest and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Toss once more.
5. 5
   serve

   Serve warm.

   Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately while warm.

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