Savory grilling hack: transform frozen broccoli into a grilled masterpiece

Grilling frozen broccoli is a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy addition to your next barbecue, this simple recipe has got you covered.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag (16 ounces) frozen broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

2. Thaw the broccoli: While the grill is heating, place the frozen broccoli florets in a colander and run under cold water for a few minutes to thaw them slightly.

3. Toss with oil: In a large bowl, toss the thawed broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Grill the broccoli: Place the broccoli florets on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are tender and slightly charred.

5. Serve immediately: Remove the broccoli from the grill and serve immediately as a side dish or add it to your favorite salads, sandwiches, or wraps.

Tips for Grilling Frozen Broccoli

• Use a grill basket: If you have a grill basket, it can be helpful for grilling small pieces of food like broccoli florets. It will prevent them from falling through the grates.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Make sure to give the broccoli florets enough space on the grill so that they cook evenly.
• Flip the broccoli regularly: To ensure even cooking, flip the broccoli florets every few minutes.
• Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can also add other spices or herbs, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.
• Grill over indirect heat: If your grill has two burners, you can grill the broccoli over indirect heat to prevent burning.

Benefits of Grilling Frozen Broccoli

Grilling frozen broccoli is not only convenient but also offers several benefits:

• Preserves nutrients: Grilling frozen broccoli helps to preserve its nutrients better than boiling or steaming.
• Enhances flavor: The smoky flavor from the grill adds an extra layer of flavor to the broccoli.
• Reduces water content: Grilling removes excess water from the broccoli, making it more flavorful and less watery.
• Versatile: Grilled broccoli can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches to stir-fries.

Variations

• Lemon-herb broccoli: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to the broccoli before grilling for a refreshing twist.
• Spicy broccoli: Sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on the broccoli before grilling for a spicy kick.
• Grilled broccoli with bacon: Cook some bacon on the grill and crumble it over the broccoli before serving for a smoky and savory flavor.

Conclusion:

Grilling frozen broccoli is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this healthy vegetable. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out today and discover the joy of grilled broccoli!

FAQ

1. Can I grill fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can grill fresh broccoli. Simply cut the broccoli into florets and follow the same instructions as for frozen broccoli.

2. How do I know when the broccoli is done cooking?

The broccoli is done cooking when it is tender and slightly charred. You can test it by piercing it with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, the broccoli is done.

3. Can I grill other frozen vegetables on the grill?

Yes, you can grill other frozen vegetables on the grill, such as corn, peas, carrots, and green beans. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed.