Description
Grilled Broccoli is a simple, flavorful side dish featuring tender-crisp broccoli marinated in a garlic-lemon olive oil blend and grilled to perfection, enhanced with charred lemon wedges for a bright citrus finish.
Ingredients
Broccoli
- 2 medium heads broccoli (stems on, washed)
Marinade
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
For Serving
- 2 lemons (cut in half)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Trim the Broccoli Stems: Using a vegetable peeler, trim the sides of the broccoli stems to remove the tough outer layer until you reach the pale green tender part beneath, trimming all the way up to the florets as much as possible for optimal texture.
- Cut Broccoli in Halves: Slice each broccoli head in half lengthwise down the middle of the stem and floret so that the halves can lay flat on the grill, repeating with the second head.
- Apply the Marinade: Place the broccoli halves on a baking sheet and drizzle the marinade over each piece, gently massaging to coat all surfaces evenly for maximum flavor absorption.
- Marinate: Allow the broccoli to marinate for one to two hours if time permits, enabling the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Broccoli: Arrange the broccoli halves cut side down on the grill grates in a single layer; close the grill lid and grill undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until grill marks appear.
- Flip and Continue Grilling: Flip the broccoli to the other side, then flip again and grill until the broccoli is tender-crisp and evenly charred. During this time, place the lemon halves cut side down on the grill and grill until warmed and bearing blackened grill lines.
- Serve: Remove the broccoli and grilled lemon halves from the grill, plate, and serve each broccoli piece with a wedge of grilled lemon for squeezing over.
Notes
- Trimming the broccoli stems helps them cook evenly and improves tenderness.
- Marinating enhances flavor, though you can skip or shorten this step if in a hurry.
- Use medium-high heat to achieve good char without burning.
- Grilled lemons add a smoky citrus brightness that complements the broccoli.
- Leftover grilled broccoli can be used in salads or as a side cold or reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American