How to Cook Broccoli + 15 Broccoli Recipes & More

With spring in the air, many of us are looking for new ways to incorporate fresh vegetables in our daily cooking. If you’re trying to find a versatile veggie to add to the mix, look no further. Broccoli is packed with health benefits and can be prepared to complement almost any dish. Learn 8 ways to cook our favorite floret, and find fresh inspiration with tips, tricks and broccoli recipes.

Grilled Broccoli

Bored of your broccoli? Give your healthy side some rustic flair by locking in the smoky flavors of the grill. Start by washing and breaking up your broccoli. Then, toss it in oil, herbs, salt and pepper or even some marinade. Place a large piece of foil on the grill before firing it up to medium heat. Toss the prepared broccoli on the foil and cook for about 8 minutes. You can also use a grill basket for an even simpler way to grill.

Air Fryer Broccoli

Air fryer broccoli combines the best of roasting and steaming to deliver bright, tender and crispy broccoli while cutting down pre-heat time. Start by getting your broccoli roast ready. Then, toss it in the air fryer basket and add a bit of water to prevent burning. Cook for 10 minutes.

Broccoli Soup

While there’s nothing like the refreshing crunch of tender-crisp broccoli, our favorite veggie can also be used to create rich comfort dishes for rainy days year-round. Try our Classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup or our spicy take on the recipe. Whether you want a little kick or a little comfort, broccoli soup is perfect for warming up on a cool spring evening.

Roasted Broccoli

Our Roasted Broccoli recipe is perfect for adding to pasta dishes or serving alongside a protein. You can also use this classic method as part of a sheet pan dinner to simplify weeknight meals. For perfectly roasted broccoli, preheat the oven to 400°F, and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. While the oven is warming up, wash your head of broccoli and break it up. You’ll want a sheet of evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking. Spread your broccoli on the baking sheet in a single layer, and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper and your favorite dried herbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, chop up some fresh garlic to add to the sheet. Transfer your baking sheet to the hot oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the florets are lightly browned around the edges.

Broccoli Casserole

When considering comforting broccoli dishes, you can’t beat a creamy broccoli casserole. This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice dish can be made the old-fashioned way, or reimagined for some low-carb, keto comfort.

Broccoli Salad

Broccoli, a veggie in the same family as kale, adds a deliciously crunchy bite to spring and summer salads and slaws. Try this Broccoli Salad, loaded with raisins, sunflower seeds and sweet red onion for a refreshing spring side. Or try this Grilled Broccoli Caesar Salad for a heartier twist on the classic appetizer.

Steamed Broccoli

For a light and refreshing dish, try steaming broccoli. This cooking method helps to preserve the broccoli’s nutrients, vibrant color and crisp texture. Plus, it's a quick and easy way to get this superfood on the table. For the most delicious steamed broccoli, add it to a steamer basket, then place it in a saucepan. Add just enough water or broth to the pan to get a good steam going, about an inch. Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let steam for 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and bright green. Season with salt, pepper, olive oil and lemon juice to taste.

Looking for Even More Inspiration?

Visit our blog for even more spring inspiration, including meal planning, recipes and our one-stop spring flavor shop.