Stir-fried lemon broccoli
Stir-fried lemon broccoli features vibrant broccoli paired with zesty lemon and crunchy almonds, creating a flavorful and healthy side dish. This quick recipe combines simple techniques for a refreshing accompaniment to any meal.
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil1/3 cup almonds
16 oz broccoli
1 tbsp water
2 tbsp lemon zest
Stir-fried lemon broccoli is a quick and healthy side dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli and zesty lemon. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the crunch of almonds with the refreshing taste of lemon zest, making it a perfect complement to any main course. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Instructions:
- Wash and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Roughly chop the almonds.
- Zest the lemon until you have approximately 2 tablespoons.
- Place a large skillet or wok on the stove over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat up until it's shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the chopped almonds to the heated oil. Stir frequently and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the almonds are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Stir frequently to coat them evenly with the remaining oil and let them cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to become tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Add 1 tablespoon of water to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the broccoli steam for an additional 2-3 minutes until it's bright green and tender-crisp.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of lemon zest over the broccoli. Return the toasted almonds to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine. Allow it to cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.
- Transfer the stir-fried lemon broccoli to a serving dish. Enjoy it as a side dish to your favorite main course or as a healthy snack on its own.
Stir-fried lemon broccoli is not only a visually appealing dish but also a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meal. The combination of lemon zest and toasted almonds enhances the taste and adds a delightful crunch. By following these tips and steps, you can easily prepare this refreshing side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Enjoy your homemade stir-fried lemon broccoli!
Stir-fried lemon broccoli FAQ:
The total cooking time for stir-fried lemon broccoli is about 10-12 minutes. This includes approximately 3 minutes to toast the almonds, 5 minutes to stir-fry the broccoli, and an additional 2-3 minutes for steaming.
If the broccoli becomes mushy, it’s best to adjust the cooking time next time. Broccoli should be cooked until it's bright green and tender-crisp. Keep an eye on it while cooking to avoid overcooking.
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, but be careful not to overcook it again.
You can substitute almonds with other nuts like cashews or walnuts. If you prefer a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well too.
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it may require a slightly longer cooking time. Make sure to thaw it beforehand and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Tips:
- Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth stir-frying process.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well before cooking.
- Toast the almonds separately in a dry pan before adding them to the stir-fry for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice along with the lemon zest.
- Stir-frying on high heat helps retain the broccoli’s vibrant color and crisp texture.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 100kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 3.96g
Sugar 2.02g
Fat 9g
More recipes
Garlic-almond green beans with butter
A quick side of green beans with garlic and toasted almonds.
01 Feb 2026Steamed baby carrots with honey and hazelnuts
Tender steamed carrots with honey and crunchy hazelnuts.
21 Dec 2025Chive and parsley mashed potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with chives and parsley for added flavor.
27 Nov 2025