I was recently asked about my favorite recipes for dairy-free nutrition. And I forgot one of my favorites, simple steamed or sautéed broccoli. This powerhouse vegetable is not only a good source of calcium, it’s also rich in potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, and several other essential micronutrients. And, I think it’s pretty tasty. But even if you aren’t a big broccoli fan, I think you’ll like this flavorful dairy-free lemon broccoli sauté.
This Dairy-Free Lemon Broccoli is a Simple Side for Any Meal
This dairy-free lemon broccoli was inspired by a Barefoot Contessa recipe. She uses parmesan and pine nuts, but I find these cheesy and nutty additions unnecessary. The simple combination of lemon, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper is enough to elevate this humble cruciferous vegetable. I also have some serving and substitution options in the FAQs below.
What should I Serve this Lemon Broccoli with?
Honestly, it pairs well with most main dishes. We’ve had it with hamburgers, roasted chicken, baked tofu, sauteed fish, you name it. The flavors are simple enough to complement most proteins and starches.
Can I Use Less Oil?
You can halve the oil if you wish. It does add a nice richness that stands in for butter. But if you’re looking for a lighter and zestier side dish, you can reduce the oil.
Should I Use Extra-Virgin Olive Oil?
Most extra-virgin olive oil can be used when sauteeing at medium-low heat. If you’re concerned about the smoke point, use regular or extra light olive oil.
Can I Use Jarred Garlic?
Yes, about 1 teaspoon pre-minced garlic works in place of the cloves.
What Can I Substitute for the Garlic?
If you need a lower-FODMAP dish, don’t like garlic, or have simply run out of it, you have a few options. You can simply omit it, or you can substitute about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. For a different flavor twist, use 1 teaspoon minced or crushed ginger instead.
What Other Herbs and Spices would go in this Lemon Broccoli?
If you want a little heat, I love crushed red pepper on broccoli. But smoked paprika or a Cajun blend is also nice with this lemon broccoli. If you prefer herbs, I think fresh thyme, parsley, basil, or oregano would be delicious.
Can I Roast the Broccoli in the Oven Instead?
You can! Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Toss the broccoli with the oil, garlic, salt, and pepper a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake the broccoli for 15 to 20 minutes, or until just beginning to brown on the florets. Immediately toss it with the lemon juice and zest for a tangy roasted broccoli.
Can I Substitute any Other Veggies?
This recipe works well with cauliflower or green beans, too. Or you can use part broccoli, part cauliflower. If you are using the oven roasted option mentioned above, halved brussels sprouts or asparagus also substitute nicely in this recipe. The asparagus should only be roasted for about 10 minutes, while the brussels sprouts usually need at least 20 minutes.
Special Diet Notes: Lemon Broccoli Sauté
By ingredients, this recipe is dairy-free / non-dairy, egg-free, nut-free, peanut-free, gluten-free, grain-free, soy-free, vegan, plant-based, paleo, and vegetarian.
- 1 pound broccolini or broccoli florets
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon salt, to taste, plus a pinch for the boiling water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Bring a large pot of water to boil with a pinch of salt.
- Prepare a large bowl of cold ice water.
- Add the broccoli to the boiling water and cook it for just 2 minutes. Drain the broccoli and immediately submerge it in a bowl of ice water to quickly stop the cooking process. Drain the broccoli well.
- Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the lemon zest and garlic and give it a quick stir. Add the broccoli and saute for just 2 minutes or until it is heated through. Add the lemon juice, ¼ to ½ teaspoon salt (to taste), and pepper, and toss well.
- Serve immediately.