Instant Pot Broccoli
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This Instant Pot Broccoli is ready to eat in less than 10 minutes! You’ll end up with perfect results every time with this quick and easy pressure cooker method.
Are you ready for this game changer of a side dish? With just a 2 minute cook time, this Instant Pot Broccoli will be ready to eat before you know it!
A side dish this easy is completely acceptable as a last minute addition to dinner. The fresh broccoli florets cook as the Instant Pot comes up to pressure so you can sit back and relax or focus on cooking the pan-seared chicken thighs and tossing the lemon orzo salad together for dinner.
Making steamed broccoli in an Instant Pot is as easy as throwing the florets in the pot, pouring water over top, and setting the minimal cook time. Top the steamed broccoli with freshly shaved parmesan cheese and lemon juice on top for the best flavors!
Recipe highlights
- Ready in less than 10 minutes, it’s one of the easiest and fastest side dishes!
- Naturally free from oil, dairy, and gluten.
- Top it with lemon juice, parmesan, and salt and pepper for simple, yet vibrant flavors.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Broccoli
- Broccoli – I used fresh broccoli but you can use pre-cut florets or even frozen florets if that’s what you already have at home. Just know that steamed frozen broccoli may turn out on the softer side.
- Water – For steaming.
- Toppings – Top the steamed broccoli with fresh lemon juice or shaved parmesan.
How to Make Instant Pot Broccoli
Step 1: Prep the broccoli. Chop the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Place them in the Instant Pot and pour the water over top.
Step 2: Cook. Seal the lid shut and pressure cook for 1 or 2 minutes (depending on if you like your steamed broccoli slightly firm or soft).
Step 3: Vent the Instant Pot. Switch the valve to “vent” to let all of the steam release.
Step 4: Add toppings and serve. Your perfectly tender steamed broccoli is ready to serve on the side of dinner with all of the toppings you desire.
Tips and FAQs
- Do you prefer cooked broccoli to be more firm than soft? If so, pressure cook the broccoli for just 1 minute.
- For softer steamed broccoli, pressure cook the florets for 2 minutes.
- Replace half of the amount of broccoli with cauliflower florets, carrots, asparagus, or any other steamed veggies you like.
Can I steam broccoli in the Instant Pot without a steamer basket?
A steamer basket will circulate the steam in the Instant Pot and prevent the florets from overcooking, but it isn’t a necessary tool for this recipe. Just add the florets right into the Instant Pot with the water and steam away.
What other toppings can I add?
Cooked broccoli only gets better with simple and flavorful toppings like salt and pepper, lemon juice, and shaved parmesan. To make your broccoli side dish a full meal, feel free to add more toppings, like:
- Feta cheese
- Sauteed shallots
- Roasted garlic
- Lemon yogurt sauce
- Melted butter or olive oil
- Cheese sauce
- Honey soy sauce marinade
- Balsamic reduction
- Chipotle aioli
What goes well with steamed broccoli?
It’s safe to say that almost everything pairs well with steamed broccoli. Serve it next to Chicken Meatloaf or Air Fryer Lamb Chops for dinner, with Mashed Sweet Potatoes or Cauliflower Rice, or tossed into a Sweet Potato Salad for extra nutrition.
More Instant Pot recipes
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Instant Pot Broccoli
Ingredients
- 2 heads broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1/2 cup water
- salt and pepper to taste
- lemon juice, optional
- parmesan cheese, shredded, optional
Instructions
- Chop the broccoli into florets, then place it into your Instant Pot/pressure cooker. Pour the water over top.
- Close the lid and make sure the knob on top is in the "seal" position. Pressure cook the broccoli for 1 minute for a soft but still slightly crunchy texture, or 2 minutes for soft broccoli (similar to steamed broccoli).
- As soon as it's done, immediately switch the knob to "vent". The broccoli should be perfectly tender!
- Add salt and pepper to taste, then top with 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional) and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese (optional). Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
