Pan-fried broccoli with red pepper and salt
Pan-fried broccoli with red pepper and salt is a quick and nutritious side dish that highlights tender broccoli's natural flavors with a spicy kick from red pepper. This method ensures a delightful sear and keeps the broccoli slightly crisp.
Cook time 8 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1 package broccoli1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp red pepper (spice)
Pan-fried broccoli with red pepper and salt is a simple and flavorful dish that can be prepared quickly. It makes a great side dish for any meal or a healthy snack. The combination of tender broccoli, vibrant red pepper, and a touch of salt creates a delicious and nutritious treat.
Instructions:
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water.
- Pat the broccoli dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring each piece is relatively uniform for even cooking.
- Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and let it heat up until it starts to shimmer but not smoke.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Allow the broccoli to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. This will give it a nice sear and enhance its flavor.
4. Season and Stir:
- After the initial sear, use a spatula to gently flip the broccoli florets to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Season the broccoli with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of red pepper.
- Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Continue Cooking:
- Continue to cook the broccoli, stirring occasionally, for another 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still slightly crisp. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for broccoli texture.
6. Serve:
- Once the broccoli is cooked to your desired tenderness, remove it from the heat.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer the pan-fried broccoli to a serving dish.
- For additional flavor and presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of extra red pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, or some grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately as a delicious side dish or a healthy snack.
Enjoy your savory and slightly spicy pan-fried broccoli. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also nutrients, making it an excellent addition to your meal. Feel free to experiment with additional spices or a squeeze of lemon to add your unique twist.
Pan-fried broccoli with red pepper and salt FAQ:
The broccoli is done cooking when it is tender but still slightly crisp, usually after about 6-8 minutes total cooking time. You can test by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be easily pierced but not mushy.
Yes, fresh broccoli is ideal for this recipe. Just make sure to wash and dry it properly before cutting it into bite-sized florets for even cooking.
Store any leftover pan-fried broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.
If you want a milder flavor, you can substitute red pepper with paprika or omit it entirely. For more heat, consider using crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne, adjusting to your taste.
A large skillet or frying pan, approximately 10-12 inches in diameter, is best to allow for even cooking without overcrowding. If making a larger batch, use a larger pan or cook in batches.
Tips:
- Ensure the broccoli is washed and thoroughly dried before cooking to achieve the best possible texture.
- Cut the broccoli into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Heat the olive oil in the pan until it's hot but not smoking to achieve a nice crisp on the broccoli.
- Add the broccoli in a single layer in the pan to avoid overcrowding, which can cause it to steam rather than fry.
- Stir occasionally to cook the broccoli evenly but avoid over-stirring to keep the florets intact.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your heat preference.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing, if desired.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 44kcal
Protein 2.94g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 2.78g
Sugar 1.61g
Fat 3.80g
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