Side Dishes > Vegan Side Dishes > Simple Vegan Sides > Steamed Broccoli with Lemon
Steamed Broccoli with Toasted Almonds and Lemon Dressing
Elevate simple steamed broccoli with crunchy toasted almonds and a bright, tangy lemon dressing. A delightful vegan side dish that's both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup Almonds, slivered
- 1 null Lemon
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper
Prepare the Broccoli
Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly. Cut them into even-sized pieces.
Toast the Almonds
Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
Steam the Broccoli
Add about 1 inch of water to a pot with a steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets to the steamer basket. Cover and steam for 5-8 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Prepare the Lemon Dressing
While the broccoli is steaming, zest the lemon and then juice it. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (or agave), salt, and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Remove the broccoli from the steamer basket and place it in a serving bowl. Pour the lemon dressing over the broccoli and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with the toasted almonds. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Approximately: Calories: 65, Fat: 4.5g, Saturated Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 90mg, Carbohydrates: 6g, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 2g, Protein: 2.5g
Other Considerations for Nutrition
Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your preference for sweetness. For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for the almonds.
FAQ
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Can I use other nuts?
Yes, you can use other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts. Adjust the toasting time accordingly. -
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the lemon dressing up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using. -
Can I add herbs to the dressing?
Yes, feel free to add fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives to the lemon dressing for extra flavor.