Longhorn steakhouse lemon butter broccoli recipe – Culinary Chase
Let’s start with what to serve alongside this gem. Imagine a juicy ribeye steak sizzling on the grill, the aroma filling your backyard. Pair that with mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and a touch of creamy gravy.
Now, picture a tall glass of iced tea, beads of condensation rolling down. Yes, this lemon butter broccoli deserves a starring role in your next BBQ. Versatile and delicious, it complements everything from grilled chicken to salmon.
I’m thrilled to share a recipe close to my heart, the LongHorn Steakhouse Lemon Butter Broccoli. It’s simple, it’s tasty, and it packs a punch of flavor. This dish has turned many a veggie skeptic into a broccoli believer. Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into what makes this recipe a fan favorite.
What is LongHorn Steakhouse Lemon Butter Broccoli?
At its core, this dish is broccoli florets adorned in a luxurious lemon-butter sauce. It’s a classic side dish from LongHorn Steakhouse, famous for adding a gourmet touch to everyday vegetables. The recipe is approachable, yet it gives broccoli an elevated status at the dining table. You’ll find it light, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
So, what can you expect flavor-wise? Imagine the refreshing zest of lemon harmoniously balanced with creamy, melted butter. Add a whisper of garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a savory finish. This dish is a melody of flavors—bright, tangy, and rich—all at once.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Broccoli Recipes?
You might wonder, why this broccoli dish over others? Well, it’s the perfect storm of simplicity and sophistication. Unlike other recipes that may overcomplicate with countless ingredients, this one shines bright due to its minimalism. Plus, that particular blend of lemon and butter is out of this world. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why simplicity wins here.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
First things first, cut your broccoli into florets. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any hidden dirt or debris. Let them drain well.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Add the broccoli to a steaming basket over boiling water. Steam for about 5 minutes. You want them vibrant green and tender, with a bit of crunch still left.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk together until well-blended.
Step 4: Toss the Broccoli
Place your steamed broccoli in a large mixing bowl. Pour the lemon butter sauce over it, making sure each floret gets its share of the tangy, buttery goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to a serving dish, and voila, you’re ready to feast! This dish hits the sweet spot of being a crowd-pleaser while simple to prepare.
Tips on Making LongHorn Steakhouse Lemon Butter Broccoli
- Don’t Over-Steam: Aim for al dente. Over-steamed broccoli turns mushy and loses its vibrant color.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice has a brighter flavor compared to bottled versions.
- High-Quality Butter: This isn’t the time for margarine. Real butter makes all the difference.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Store-bought grated cheese lacks flavor. Grating fresh Parmesan cheese ensures a richer taste.
- Toss Immediately: Toss the broccoli with the sauce while it’s still hot to ensure better absorption of flavors.
Nutrition Information
How Can I Store This Lemon Butter Broccoli?
Storing this beauty is a breeze. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, a quick zap in the microwave or a flash in a pan will do the trick.
Substitute Options for the Ingredients
Don’t sweat it if you lack a few ingredients. Here are alternatives:
- Broccoli: Cauliflower serves as a fantastic stand-in.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Use lime juice for a different citrusy kick.
- Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor, ideal for vegans.
- Garlic Powder: Opt for minced fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
Longhorn steakhouse lemon butter broccoli recipe
Equipment
- Steaming basket
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
- First things first, cut your broccoli into florets. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any hidden dirt or debris. Let them drain well.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
- Add the broccoli to a steaming basket over boiling water. Steam for about 5 minutes. You want them vibrant green and tender, with a bit of crunch still left.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk together until well-blended.
Step 4: Toss the Broccoli
- Place your steamed broccoli in a large mixing bowl. Pour the lemon butter sauce over it, making sure each floret gets its share of the tangy, buttery goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to a serving dish, and voila, you’re ready to feast! This dish hits the sweet spot of being a crowd-pleaser while simple to prepare.
Notes
- Don’t Over-Steam: Aim for al dente. Over-steamed broccoli turns mushy and loses its vibrant color.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice has a brighter flavor compared to bottled versions.
- High-Quality Butter: This isn’t the time for margarine. Real butter makes all the difference.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Store-bought grated cheese lacks flavor. Grating fresh Parmesan cheese ensures a richer taste.
- Toss Immediately: Toss the broccoli with the sauce while it’s still hot to ensure better absorption of flavors.
Nutrition
Relevant Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does this recipe work with frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just ensure to steam it until it’s tender. However, fresh broccoli always yields better flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, and either omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese.
3. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Indeed, you can prepare it ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving. Add a splash of lemon juice to refresh its flavor during reheating.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even asparagus can complement the flavors excellently.
5. How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
Go easy on the lemon juice and garlic if your kids are sensitive to strong flavors. Adding a bit of melted cheddar can also make it more appealing to youngsters.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! LongHorn Steakhouse Lemon Butter Broccoli, a simple yet delectable side dish that promises to elevate any meal. With a harmony of lemon, butter, and savory Parmesan, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite. I hope you try it out and add your twist to it. Happy cooking!