Looking for a vibrant, flavorful vegan dish that’s quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying? This Broccoli with Garlic Sauce recipe is a perfect choice!
Bursting with fresh broccoli florets tossed in a zesty, savory garlic sauce, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated through thoughtful seasoning and a touch of spice. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just wanting to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe delivers on taste and nutrition without sacrificing ease of preparation.
Garlic lovers will especially adore the rich, aromatic sauce that coats each bite of broccoli, making it an irresistible side or even a main when paired with steamed rice or noodles. Plus, it’s gluten-free and oil-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Ready to whip up this delicious and healthy dish? Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan broccoli with garlic sauce recipe is a fantastic way to make your greens exciting and flavorful. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Full of flavor: The garlic sauce is bold, tangy, and slightly sweet, enhancing the natural taste of broccoli.
- Healthy and nutritious: Broccoli is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while the sauce uses wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve as a side dish, or toss with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Vegan and allergen-friendly: Dairy-free, gluten-free, and oil-free option suitable for many diets.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups florets)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional but recommended for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Medium bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Rinse the broccoli thoroughly and cut into bite-sized florets.
- Blanch the broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
- Make the garlic sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth (to keep it oil-free). Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
- Add the sauce and thicken: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Stir the cornstarch slurry again and slowly add it to the skillet while stirring. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Toss broccoli in sauce: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Toss well to coat each floret with the garlic sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and add salt if needed. If you prefer more heat, sprinkle additional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds if using and serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite noodles.
Tips & Variations
For the best texture, don’t overcook the broccoli during blanching—it should remain bright and slightly crisp.
- Add veggies: Include sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for a colorful stir-fry.
- Make it spicy: Add fresh chopped chili or use chili garlic sauce instead of red pepper flakes.
- Omit cornstarch: For a lighter sauce, skip the cornstarch but expect a thinner consistency.
- Use fresh ginger: Add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger along with garlic for an extra zing.
- Nutritional yeast: Sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 110 kcal |
Protein | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
Sugars | 4 g |
Fat | 2 g |
Sodium | 550 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli with garlic sauce is a wonderfully versatile dish. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
- Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a simple meal.
- Mix with cooked soba or rice noodles for a quick vegan stir-fry.
- Pair with tofu or tempeh for added protein.
- Use as a flavorful side to your favorite vegan mains like Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.
- Include alongside other Asian-inspired dishes such as those found in Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This vegan broccoli with garlic sauce recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors and healthy greens to your table with minimal fuss. The garlic sauce perfectly complements the natural crunch and earthiness of broccoli, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Its versatility means you can easily customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re a vegan veteran or simply exploring more plant-based dishes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
For more inspiration, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for another delightful vegan meal option. Enjoy cooking and savor every flavorful bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Broccoli with Garlic Sauce Recipe Vegan
Description: A flavorful and healthy vegan broccoli dish tossed in a savory garlic sauce. Perfect as a side or main for a quick meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 heads of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vegetable broth.
- In a separate cup, dissolve cornstarch in water.
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic sauce mixture to the pan and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens.
- Add steamed broccoli to the pan and toss to coat with sauce.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, then season with salt as needed.
- Serve topped with toasted sesame seeds.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 15 g
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