Broccoli is a healthy and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in a number of different ways. Some of the most common and healthiest ways to cook broccoli are to steam it in the microwave or in a double boiler; simply to boiling it for a few minutes in a pot of water is another approach. It may also be sauteed with a little bit of olive oil, or roasted in the oven. Some people will even just eat it raw in a simple salad or with a dip. There are a number of different recipes illustrating different ways to cook broccoli, including blending it in order to make broccoli soup.
When preparing a healthy vegetable for dinner, most people don't want to wreck its nutritional benefits by preparing it in an unhealthy way, such as by frying it. Broccoli can be prepared in a number of different ways that are flavorful and delicious, though still healthy. Keep in mind that although one of the most common ways to cook broccoli is to steam it and then drench it in cheese sauce, this really increases the calorie and fat content of the dish, so it may be a good idea to be judicious with the cheese.
The easiest way to cook broccoli is to steam it. It may be placed in a glass dish with a little bit of water and then microwaved for a few minutes, or put in a double boiler on the stove and steamed that way. Simply boiling a pot of water, and throwing the broccoli in for a few minutes, will also cook it to perfection in a healthy way. Just be sure not to overboil it, because the broccoli will begin to soften, and will eventually just fall apart in the water. Generally, when broccoli is served, it should still be slightly crisp and a bright green color.
Sauteing or stir-frying are two other common ways to cook broccoli. It may be quickly sauteed in a pan with some olive oil and spices, often with other fresh vegetables. To stir-fry broccoli, soy sauce is often used to add extra flavor. Though many people don't think of it, broccoli can also be roasted in the oven; topping it with a little bit of olive oil, fresh minced garlic, and some grated parmesan cheese, and then cooking it under the broiler will give it a delicious and robust flavor. In addition, another favorite way to cook broccoli is to blend it into a nutritious soup.