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Grilled Broccoli with Lemon and Red Pepper Flakes Recipe


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4.2 from 32 reviews

  • Author: Sky
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4 to 6
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This grilled broccoli recipe offers a simple and flavorful summer side dish featuring large broccoli florets charred to perfection on the grill. The broccoli is coated with olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt, grilled until crisp-tender with delicious smoky char marks, then finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bright, spicy kick.


Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 pound broccoli, about 2 medium heads

Seasonings and Oil

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • Lemon wedge, for squeezing
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into large 4-inch florets. Trim the long sides of each floret to create flat edges that will sit well on the grill grates, ensuring even contact and char.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get it hot enough for perfect searing and grill marks on the broccoli.
  3. Season the Broccoli: Place the prepared broccoli florets in a large bowl. Add the extra-virgin olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt. Toss thoroughly with your hands, ensuring each floret is well coated, especially on the top side.
  4. Grill the Broccoli - Side One: Arrange the broccoli florets on the hot grill. Grill for 5 to 8 minutes without moving them to develop nice char marks. Watch for the florets to begin browning and searing.
  5. Grill the Broccoli - Side Two with Foil: Flip the broccoli florets over carefully. Tent them with foil to trap heat and help them steam slightly. Continue grilling for an additional 3 to 6 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp. If the broccoli chars faster than it softens, reduce the heat to low to avoid burning.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove the broccoli from the grill. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the florets for brightness and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately as a tasty side dish.

Notes

  • For easier handling and even cooking, cut broccoli into large florets with flat edges.
  • Tenting with foil during the second grilling phase helps retain moisture while continuing to char the broccoli.
  • Adjust grilling times slightly depending on the heat of your grill and size of florets.
  • Use fresh lemon juice right before serving for best flavor contrast.
  • Red pepper flakes add a subtle spicy kick; omit or reduce for less heat.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American