Sesame-Garlic Broccoli

Crisp-tender broccoli with toasted sesame, garlic, and a bright splash of rice vinegar. A quick stovetop side for sweet or savory glazed meats.

Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Total: 15 minutes | Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 large heads broccoli, cut into bite-size florets (about 6 cups)
• 1 tbsp neutral oil, such as avocado or canola oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1–2 tsp rice vinegar, to taste
• ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

Substitutions: Use broccolini or trimmed green beans in place of broccoli. Apple cider vinegar can replace rice vinegar in a pinch.

Instructions

1. Toast the sesame seeds — Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden. Transfer to a small bowl.
2. Brown the broccoli (4–5 min) — Increase the heat to medium-high and add the neutral oil. Add the broccoli and salt, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the florets develop browned spots.
3. Steam (3 min) — Add 2 tbsp water and immediately cover the skillet. Cook until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
4. Add the garlic — Uncover, move the broccoli to the edges of the skillet, and add the garlic to the center. Cook for about 30 seconds, then toss everything together. Add red pepper flakes, if using.
5. Finish — Remove from the heat. Toss with the toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Taste and adjust the salt or vinegar before serving.

Chef's Tips

• Keep it crisp-tender — The broccoli will continue cooking slightly after it leaves the heat.
• Add vinegar off the heat to preserve its brightness and balance sweeter main dishes.
• Start this while the chicken cooks; it will be ready before the glaze is finished.

Goes Well With

• Maple Soy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
• Teriyaki chicken, Korean beef, salmon, or tofu

Dietary Notes

Sesame seeds and sesame oil are allergens; vegetable substitutions do not remove sesame. Check ingredient labels and cross-contact information for allergies.

Safe Handling

Refrigerate promptly in shallow containers at 40°F or below, within 2 hours of preparation (1 hour above 90°F). Use within 3-4 days. Reheat leftovers to 165°F; bring soups and sauces to a rolling boil when reheating. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator, not on the counter.

USDA leftover handling guidance.