Super Simple Broccoli with Almonds

Super Simple Broccoli with Almonds

from 5 ingredients 10 minutes page 106
serves 1

The basic idea behind this recipe comes from Heston Blumenthal, a chef who tends to be about as far from minimalist as possible. Who would have thought he’d come up with such a brilliant way to cook broccoli?

This is great as a meal on its own when you’re in need of a serious veggie fix. For something more substantial, toss in a can of chickpeas or serve with some hummus. Or even toss the broccoli with hot pasta and your best quality extra virgin olive oil. Vegans can easily replace the butter with more olive oil.

1 head broccoli
1 small handful almonds
1 small knob butter
squeeze of lemon juice

1. Cut broccoli into little trees and finely slice the leftover stems.

2. Heat a large frying pan (skillet) with a lid, or something you can cover it with, until smoking hot.

3. Add 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil and broccoli and jam on the lid.

4. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir and add butter and almonds.

5. Cover and cook for another 2 minutes or until broccoli is charred in places and tender and a little crunchy in other places.

6. Squeeze over a little lemon juice. Taste and season.

variations for dietary requirements:

nut-free – Leave them out or replace with 1/2 a drained can of chickpeas.

carnivore – pan fry some bacon or ground (minced) beef and toss in at the end.

vegan – replace butter with extra virgin olive oil.

other adaptation ideas:

add some greens – Toss though some salad greens to make it more of a salad.

add protein – Add a drained can of tuna in oil and allow to warm through at the end and serve with a wedge of lemon. Or team with a fried egg.

change the nuts – Lovely with almonds, pecans or walnuts.

add some cheese – Serve with shaved parmesan cheese or crumble over marinated feta at the end.

troubleshooting guide:

too dry? – Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or a little extra butter.

broccoli too crunchy – Cook a little longer – if it’s starting to burn add a splash of water to help it steam.

serving suggestions

Makes a wonderful vegetable side dish as a change to serving a green salad.

leftover potential:

OK. Gently reheat in a frying pan for a few minutes.