Lemon butter steamed broccoli

Lemon butter steamed broccoli is a nutritious side dish featuring tender broccoli florets enhanced with a rich butter and tangy lemon sauce. It's a simple and quick recipe that elevates the vegetable's natural flavor.

16 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1.50 lb broccoli
3 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp lemon juice

Lemon butter steamed broccoli is a nutritious and flavorful side dish that is quick and easy to prepare. The bright tanginess of the lemon combined with the rich creaminess of the butter perfectly enhances the natural taste of broccoli. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a healthy addition to any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cut the broccoli into florets, making sure to keep them roughly the same size for even cooking. You can also cut the stalks into smaller pieces if desired.

2. Steam the Broccoli:
- Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and place a steamer basket inside. Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Place the broccoli florets into the steamer basket.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the broccoli steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is tender but still crisp. Check tenderness with a fork.

3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- While the broccoli is steaming, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. You can also use a microwave-safe bowl and melt the butter in the microwave in 15-second intervals until fully melted.
- Once the butter is melted, add the lemon juice, stirring to combine. Remove from heat.

4. Combine and Serve:
- Once the broccoli is steamed to your desired tenderness, carefully remove it from the steamer basket and transfer it to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the steamed broccoli and toss gently to coat all the florets evenly.

5. Serve Immediately:
- Serve the lemon butter steamed broccoli immediately as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, lemon butter steamed broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish that can complement a variety of main courses. The combination of lemon and butter brings out the best in broccoli, making it a dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. Give this recipe a try and add a burst of freshness and flavor to your meals.

Lemon butter steamed broccoli FAQ:

How long should I steam the broccoli?

Steam the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes until it is tender but still crisp. Check the tenderness with a fork to ensure it's cooked to your preference.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter. It will give the dish a different flavor profile but will still be delicious.

What is the best way to store leftover steamed broccoli?

Store leftover steamed broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be mindful that it may need a slightly longer steaming time to achieve the desired tenderness.

What pan size should I use for steaming the broccoli?

A medium-sized pot with a steamer basket that fits snugly is ideal. Ensure the water does not touch the bottom of the steam basket while boiling.

Tips:

- Choose fresh broccoli with dark green florets for the best flavor and nutrients.

- For even cooking, cut the broccoli into uniform-sized florets.

- Steam the broccoli until tender but still slightly crisp to retain its nutritional value and vibrant color.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste if you prefer a more or less tangy flavor.

- Feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper for additional seasoning.

- For a more indulgent variation, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 4.46g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 4.08g
Sugar 2.46g
Fat 9g

Lemon butter steamed broccoli