Broccoli and peanuts might not be the first pairing that comes to mind when you think of vegetarian recipes, but this dynamic duo creates dishes bursting with flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, broccoli and peanuts together offer a delightful combination of crunch and earthiness that elevates any recipe.
From stir-fries to salads, these ingredients can be transformed into satisfying meals that are as wholesome as they are delicious. With simple pantry staples and fresh produce, you can whip up dishes that are quick, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion.
In this post, you’ll discover multiple broccoli and peanuts vegetarian recipes that are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and versatile enough to suit various tastes. Plus, we’ll explore tips on getting the best flavor and texture, along with serving suggestions to make your meal complete.
Ready to fall in love with this underrated pairing? Let’s dive into the delicious world of broccoli and peanuts!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Broccoli and peanuts combine to create a nutrient powerhouse that satisfies both your taste buds and your body. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic vegetable choice for overall health.
Peanuts add a delightful crunch, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, which help keep you full and energized.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly. It’s also incredibly versatile—great as a main dish, a side, or even a topping for rice and noodles.
Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and can be adapted to suit any dietary preferences.
If you love dishes with a mix of textures, fresh veggies, and a nutty twist, these broccoli and peanuts vegetarian recipes will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup raw peanuts (lightly toasted)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola or avocado oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Small bowl for mixing sauces
- Colander (if using fresh broccoli)
- Toaster or dry skillet for toasting peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, rinse and cut into bite-sized florets. If frozen, thaw slightly and drain any excess water.
- Toast the peanuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the peanuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, maple syrup (or honey), and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, stirring frequently until fragrant and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp. If needed, add a splash of water to help steam and soften the broccoli without making it soggy.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the broccoli and stir well to coat all the pieces evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Mix in the peanuts: Stir in the toasted peanuts, reserving a few for garnish.
- Season: Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and the reserved peanuts. Serve warm over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra crunch, try adding water chestnuts or snap peas alongside the broccoli.”
- Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
- Swap the peanuts: Almonds or cashews can be tasty alternatives if you’re allergic to peanuts.
- Boost protein: Add firm tofu cubes or tempeh for a heartier meal.
- Try different sauces: For a tangy twist, mix the soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice.
- Use frozen broccoli: It’s a convenient option that works well in stir-fries and saves prep time.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe reheats beautifully and keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 7 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 14 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sugar | 4 g |
Vitamin C | 110% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli and peanuts stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. For a lighter meal, serve it atop a bed of mixed greens or alongside a fresh cucumber salad.
For an Asian-inspired twist, try serving it with noodles such as soba or rice noodles. You can also add a dollop of spicy peanut sauce or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Check out some other delicious recipes that complement this dish perfectly:
- Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes
- Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food
- La Choy Sweet And Sour Sauce Recipes
Broccoli and Peanuts Vegetarian Recipes List
Spicy Broccoli and Peanut Stir-Fry
This quick stir-fry packs a punch with chili flakes and garlic, balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted peanuts. It’s perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner.
Broccoli Peanut Salad with Ginger Dressing
Raw broccoli florets tossed with crunchy peanuts, shredded carrots, and a tangy ginger-soy dressing. This refreshing salad can be eaten as a side or a light lunch.
Thai-Inspired Broccoli and Peanut Noodles
Rice noodles with sautéed broccoli, peanuts, and a zesty peanut sauce made from peanut butter, lime juice, and tamari. Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts for an authentic flavor.
Broccoli Peanut Rice Bowl
A hearty rice bowl featuring steamed broccoli, roasted peanuts, avocado slices, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Add tofu or tempeh to boost protein content.
Roasted Broccoli and Peanut Buddha Bowl
Roasted broccoli tossed with peanuts, chickpeas, and quinoa, topped with a creamy tahini dressing. This bowl is a colorful and nutritious meal option.
Conclusion
Broccoli and peanuts make an unexpectedly perfect pair in vegetarian cooking, offering a combination of crunchy texture, nutty flavor, and impressive nutrition. These recipes are easy to prepare, adaptable to your taste preferences, and ideal for anyone looking to enjoy wholesome, plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor.
From stir-fries to salads and noodle bowls, the versatility of broccoli and peanuts means you can enjoy a variety of dishes that are both satisfying and nourishing. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces, spices, and additional ingredients to make these recipes truly your own.
For more inspiring vegetarian dishes, be sure to explore other recipes on the site and keep your meals exciting and delicious!
📖 Recipe Card: Broccoli and Peanuts Stir-Fry
Description: A quick and nutritious vegetarian stir-fry featuring crunchy broccoli and roasted peanuts. Perfect as a light meal or side dish packed with flavor and texture.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic, ginger, and onion; sauté until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, water, and red chili flakes; cook until broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Stir in roasted peanuts and sesame oil.
- Season with salt, mix well, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Serve warm as a main or side dish.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 12 g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Broccoli and Peanuts Stir-Fry”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A quick and nutritious vegetarian stir-fry featuring crunchy broccoli and roasted peanuts. Perfect as a light meal or side dish packed with flavor and texture.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT15M”, “totalTime”: “PT25M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cups broccoli florets”, “1/2 cup roasted peanuts”, “1 tablespoon olive oil”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 small onion, sliced”, “1 tablespoon soy sauce”, “1 teaspoon sesame oil”, “1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes”, “Salt to taste”, “1 teaspoon grated ginger”, “1 tablespoon water”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add garlic, ginger, and onion; saut\u00e9 until fragrant.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 5 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add soy sauce, water, and red chili flakes; cook until broccoli is tender-crisp.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Stir in roasted peanuts and sesame oil.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Season with salt, mix well, and cook for another 2 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve warm as a main or side dish.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “220 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “8 g”, “fatContent”: “15 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “12 g”}}