Broccoli is a healthy vegetable that is packed with nutrients, so it’s definitely worth adding to your diet. When it comes to preparing broccoli, there are a few different methods you can use.
One of the most common ways is to steam broccoli in the microwave. Do you know how to steam broccoli in microwave? It’s actually a lot easier than you might think!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of steaming broccoli in a microwave, as well as share some tips on how to make it even better. In just a few minutes, you can have steamed broccoli that’s tender and delicious.
So, whether you’re looking for an easy way to cook broccoli or just need some tips on how to make it taste better, keep reading!
How To Steam Broccoli In Microwave
Equipment & Ingredients Needed
- A microwave-safe dish or steamer basket
- Fresh broccoli florets (you can also use frozen broccoli)
- Water
- Salt (optional)
All you need to steam broccoli in the microwave is a microwave-safe dish, some water, and of course, broccoli.
If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your broccoli, you can also add seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, or lemon juice.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Add water to the dish
Start by adding a few tablespoons of water to the bottom of your microwave-safe dish or steamer basket. You don’t need a lot of water, just enough to create some steam.
The amount of water you’ll need will depend on the size of your dish or basket.
- For a small dish or basket, you’ll need about ¼ cup of water.
- For a larger dish or basket, you’ll need about ½ cup of water.
Step 2: Add broccoli florets
Next, cut the broccoli into smaller pieces if desired, then add them to the water.
Add your broccoli florets to the dish. If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it first. Just add it right to the water.
Step 3: Season the broccoli (optional)
If you want to add some extra flavor to your broccoli, now is the time to season it. You can add salt, pepper, garlic powder, or lemon juice.
Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Step 4: Cover the dish and cook
Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
The cooking time will depend on the power of your microwave and the number of florets you’re cooking.
Covering the dish or basket will help trap the steam and cook the broccoli faster.
Step 5: Check for doneness
After 1-2 minutes, remove the lid and check to see if the broccoli is cooked to your liking. If it’s still a little firm, you can cook it for an additional 30-60 seconds.
Step 6: Serve
Once steamed, carefully remove the broccoli from the hot water using a fork or tongs. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or seasonings. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the best steamed broccoli in the microwave:
1) Use fresh broccoli whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli will work in a pinch, but it’s not quite as good.
2) Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces before cooking so that it will cook evenly.
3) Be sure to add enough water to the dish so that the broccoli doesn’t dry out.
4) Cover the dish tightly with a lid or plate to prevent any steam from escaping.
5) Use a fork to test the broccoli for doneness. It should be tender but not mushy.
6) Add any desired seasonings before cooking, then taste and adjust as necessary.
7) For a bit of added flavor, try adding some minced garlic to the water before cooking.
8) If you’re using frozen broccoli, cook it for 2 minutes before checking to see if it’s done.
9) If you want to add some extra nutrients, try steaming broccoli with a few slices of lemon.
10) If you want your broccoli to be extra crispy, cook it in the microwave for 2 minutes less than the recommended time.
11) For an even quicker cooking time, cut the broccoli into smaller pieces. Just keep in mind that it will be more likely to overcook if it’s in small pieces.
12) Season your steamed broccoli with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices for an extra flavor boost.
And that’s all there is to it! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have perfectly steamed broccoli in no time.
Be sure to experiment with different seasonings and find what you like best. Once you’ve got the hang of it, steaming broccoli in the microwave will be a
What To Serve With Steamed Broccoli
Here are a few ideas of what to serve with your steamed broccoli:
1️⃣ Add some spice by sprinkling on some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeno peppers.
2️⃣ For a touch of sweetness, drizzle on some honey or top with dried cranberries.
3️⃣ Give it a zesty twist by adding freshly squeezed lemon juice or diced oranges.
4️⃣ Make it cheesy by topping with shredded cheddar cheese or grated Parmesan cheese.
5️⃣ For a bit of crunch, sprinkle on some chopped nuts or croutons.
6️⃣ Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or soy sauce.
7️⃣ Or simply enjoy as is!
There are endless possibilities when it comes to what to serve with steamed broccoli. Get creative and experiment until you find a combination that you like best. Enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Tips
✅ Leftover steamed broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
✅ Alternatively, you can freeze steamed broccoli for up to 3 months.
Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Again, you may need to add a bit of water when reheating to keep it from drying out.
And that’s it! Now you know how to steam broccoli in microwave. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have perfectly cooked broccoli every time. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts Of Broccoli
The following nutrition information is provided by the USDA for one cup (156g) of cooked broccoli.
| Calories | 55 |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 31mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10.6g |
| Fiber | 3.6g |
| Sugar | 2.4g |
| Protein | 4.2g |
| Vitamin A | 12% DV |
| Vitamin C | 147% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 5% DV |
| Potassium | 10% DV |
| Magnesium | 6% DV |
| Phosphorus | 8% DV |
| Zinc | 5% DV |
| Copper | 5% DV |
| Manganese | 26% DV |
Some of the other nutrients present in broccoli include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, and Pantothenic acid.
While broccoli is a very healthy vegetable, it is important to remember that it is also relatively high in sodium.
If you are on a low-sodium diet, you may want to limit your intake of this vegetable or look for ways to cook it that don’t involve adding salt.
How To Cook Frozen Broccoli In Microwave
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook frozen broccoli, the microwave is a great option.
It’s fast, simple, and doesn’t require any special equipment. In just a few minutes, you can have perfectly cooked broccoli that’s ready to eat.
Here’s what you need to do:
1️⃣ Add the broccoli and water to a microwave-safe dish.
2️⃣ Cover the dish and microwave on high for three to five minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
3️⃣ Let the broccoli sit for 1-2 minutes before eating. This will help the flavors develop and make the broccoli more tender.
That’s all there is to it! With this method, you can have perfectly cooked frozen broccoli in just a few minutes. Give it a try next time you need a quick and easy side dish.
How Long To Steam Broccoli In Microwave
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the type of broccoli you’re using and the power of your microwave.
For fresh broccoli, cook for 3-4 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, cook for 2 minutes before checking to see if it’s done.
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so it’s always best to check the broccoli periodically to avoid overcooking.
When in doubt, err on the side of caution and cooked the broccoli for less time rather than more. You can always cook it for longer if needed, but you can’t undo overcooking.
If you want your broccoli to be extra crispy, cook it in the microwave for 2 minutes less than the recommended time. Then, finish it off by giving it a quick blast in the oven (425F) for 2-3 minutes.
You can estimate times for cooking broccoli for different wattage microwaves using the chart below:
| Wattage (low to high) | Cooking time (in minutes) |
|---|---|
| 500-700W | 3-4 minutes |
| 700-900W | 2.5-3 minutes |
| 900-1100W | 2-2.5 minutes |
| 1200W | 2 minutes |
| 1400W | 1.5 minutes |
| 1600W | 1 minute |
As you can see, the higher the wattage of your microwave, the less time it will take to cook the broccoli. Keep this in mind when determining how long to cook your broccoli for.
If you’re not sure what wattage your microwave is, you can usually find this information on the back or bottom of the appliance.
Now that you know how to steam broccoli in microwave, put this knowledge to use and enjoy this healthy vegetable as part of your next meal!
Tips For The Best Steamed Broccoli In Microwave
If you’re looking for tips on how to make the best steamed broccoli in microwave, we’ve got you covered. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right type of broccoli to steaming it perfectly.
Here are a few of our favorite tips:
1) Choose broccoli:
When it comes to choosing broccoli, you want to make sure that you select florets that are uniform in size. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
- If the florets are too small, they may overcook and become mushy.
- If they’re too large, they may not cook through properly.
2) Prepare broccoli:
Once you’ve selected your broccoli, it’s time to start prepping it for steaming.
The first step is to trim the stalk so that it’s about two inches long. You can then cut the florets into bite-sized pieces.
3) Add flavor:
As we mentioned earlier, adding some salt, pepper, garlic powder, or lemon juice can really enhance the flavor of your broccoli.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try adding other spices or herbs.
4) Try frozen broccoli:
Frozen broccoli is a great option for microwave steaming because it’s already pre-cut and doesn’t need to be thawed first.
Plus, it’s often cheaper than fresh broccoli.
5) Use a steamer basket:
If you have one, using a steamer basket will help your broccoli cook more evenly. Just add the broccoli and water to the basket, then place it in the microwave.
- If you’re using a steamer basket, add the broccoli and about two inches of water to the pot. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and steam the broccoli for three to five minutes, or until it’s tender.
- If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish with about two tablespoons of water. Cover the dish and microwave on high for three to five minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
6) Cut the broccoli into smaller pieces:
Cutting the broccoli into smaller pieces will help it cook more evenly and prevent it from getting overcooked.
7) Don’t overcook:
The key to perfect microwave-steamed broccoli is not to overcook it. When in doubt, err on the side of undercooked because you can always cook it for a little longer if needed.
8) Let it sit:
Once the broccoli is cooked, let it sit for 1-2 minutes before eating. This will help the flavors develop and make the broccoli more tender.
There you have it! Now you know how to steam broccoli in microwave. With this method, you can have perfectly cooked broccoli in just a few minutes. We think you’ll be surprised at how easy and delicious it is.
And, if you use our tips, we’re sure you’ll be even more impressed. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook broccoli, give this method a try!
Health Benefits of Eating Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers a variety of health benefits.
Here are a few of the reasons why you should make broccoli a part of your diet:
1) It’s packed with vitamins and minerals
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains potassium, fiber, and folic acid.
2) It’s low in calories:
One cup of broccoli only contains 31 calories. This makes it a great option for those watching their weight.
3) It’s a good source of antioxidants:
Broccoli contains compounds that can help protect cells from damage. These compounds may also help to reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
4) It may boost immunity
Broccoli contains nutrients that can help to boost the immune system. This may help to protect against colds and other illnesses.
5) It’s anti-inflammatory
The nutrients in broccoli can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. This may be beneficial for those with conditions like arthritis or Crohn’s disease.
If you’re looking for a nutrient-rich vegetable to add to your diet, broccoli is a great option. It offers a variety of health benefits and can be enjoyed in many different ways.
So, next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some broccoli!
How To Enjoy Broccoli
There are many ways to enjoy broccoli. You can add it to pasta dishes, stir-fries, salads, or soups. You can also roast it, grill it, or sauté it.
There are endless ways to enjoy broccoli. Here are a few of our favorites:
1️⃣ Add steamed broccoli to your favorite pasta dish.
2️⃣ Top a pizza with broccoli and your other favorite toppings.
3️⃣ Mix cooked broccoli into a frittata or quiche.
4️⃣ Add to a stir-fry or Asian-inspired dish.
5️⃣ Toss cooked broccoli with some olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sea salt for a simple side dish.
6️⃣ Use as a healthy alternative to breadcrumbs when making meatballs or veggie burgers.
7️⃣ Purée cooked broccoli and use as a soup base or to make a vegetable dip.
Broccoli is an incredibly versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in countless different ways. Get creative and experiment until you find a way that you like best. Bon appétit!
Some Recipes To Use Steamed Broccoli
Here are some recipes that feature steamed broccoli as a main or side ingredient:
1) Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts: This recipe features chicken breasts that are stuffed with a cheesy broccoli and cheese filling.
2) One-Pot Broccoli Pasta: This easy pasta dish is made with just a few simple ingredients, including steamed broccoli.
3) Roasted Broccoli and Quinoa Salad: This healthy salad is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, including roasted broccoli, quinoa, and kale.
4) Creamy Broccoli Soup: This creamy soup is perfect for a chilly day. It’s made with steamed broccoli, milk, and chicken broth.
5) Honey Garlic Broccoli: This simple recipe features steamed broccoli that’s tossed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
If you’re looking for recipes that feature steamed broccoli, these are a great place to start. With so many different options, you’re sure to find one that you’ll love.
So, next time you steam broccoli, be sure to save some for one of these delicious recipes!
FAQs
Is microwave broccoli healthy?
Yes, microwave broccoli is healthy. This cooking method helps to preserve the nutrients in broccoli. Additionally, it’s a quick and easy way to cook this nutrient-rich vegetable.
Can I add other vegetables to my steamed broccoli?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to your steamed broccoli. This is a great way to create a nutrient-packed side dish or meal.
Try adding carrots, mushrooms, or green beans to your next batch of steamed broccoli.
Is it better to steam or boil broccoli?
It’s up to you! Both methods are quick and easy ways to cook broccoli.
Steaming tends to preserve more of the nutrients, but boiling is also a healthy option.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which cooking method you prefer.
How do you keep broccoli fresh for long periods of time?
The best way to keep broccoli fresh is to store it in the fridge. Be sure to wash it before storing and place it in a plastic bag or container.
It’s also a good idea to consume it within a few days for the best quality.
How do you clean broccoli?
Be sure to rinse your broccoli thoroughly under cool water. You can also remove any dirt or debris by scrubbing it with a vegetable brush.
If you’re using organic broccoli, there’s no need to worry about pesticides.
However, if you’re using non-organic broccoli, be sure to give it a good wash before cooking.
What are the benefits of eating broccoli?
Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers a variety of health benefits. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your health.
Additionally, broccoli is a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health. Eating broccoli regularly can also help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Summary
If you are looking for a healthy and delicious side dish, steamed broccoli in the microwave is a great option. Our guide provides tips to help you get the best results every time. Steamed broccoli is a healthy and tasty side dish that is perfect for any occasion.
We hope this guide on how to steam broccoli in microwave was helpful! Remember, with just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked broccoli that’s ready to eat.
So, the next time you’re looking for an easy and healthy side dish, give this method a try.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us in the comments section below. We love hearing from you!
