Before we dive into the heart of this post, let’s talk about what you can enjoy with Carrabba’s broccoli. Picture this: a bowl of creamy alfredo pasta or a plate of grilled chicken breast. You could also serve it alongside a hearty lasagna or a flavorful steak.
The beauty of Carrabba’s broccoli is its versatility. It complements nearly everything, from Italian classics to grilled favorites. The slight crunch and mild flavor of the broccoli pairs beautifully with rich and savory dishes, boosting your meal’s overall appeal.
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Ah, Carrabba’s broccoli. Just saying the name brings back memories. Whether it’s a special dinner or a casual lunch, this dish steals the show. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve raided my kitchen to recreate this memorable side dish.
And trust me, if you think broccoli is boring, you haven’t tried this version yet! This dish is simple yet brimming with flavors, and it comes with the bonus of being packed with nutrients. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together.
What is Carrabba’s Broccoli?
Carrabba’s broccoli is a delightful dish served in the popular Italian-American restaurant chain Carrabba’s Italian Grill. It’s a side made primarily from fresh broccoli florets sautéed with a mix of garlic, olive oil, and a twist of lemon juice, seasoned to perfection. It’s often garnished with red pepper flakes for that little kick.
This dish showcases the ingredients without overpowering them, letting the freshness of broccoli shine through. If you’ve been looking for a green side that won’t wilt under the spotlight of your main dish, this is it.
Why You’ll Love Carrabba’s Broccoli
You might wonder, “What’s the big deal about broccoli?” Well, Carrabba’s broccoli isn’t just any broccoli. It’s an experience, a delight, and here’s why:
1. Flavor Explosion: Bite into tender yet slightly crunchy florets that are infused with garlic and zesty lemon. Each mouthful dances with freshness, balanced with the richness of olive oil.
2. Nutritious Goodness: Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It’s high in fiber, Vitamin C, and a good source of antioxidants. So you’re not just enjoying a side; you’re fueling your body.
3. Versatile Dish: You can use Carrabba’s broccoli as a side for almost any dish. Planning a barbecue? Serve it with grilled meats. Having Italian night? It pairs perfectly with pasta.
4. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend dinners.
5. Allergen-Friendly: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily adapt to many dietary restrictions, making it a great choice for family gatherings.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Carrabba’s Broccoli
To make this dish a reality, you’ll need a short list of fresh and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, squeezed
- 1 ½ lbs broccoli florets, washed and thoroughly dried
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (for added citrusy brightness)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (for a savory finish)
Directions
Ready to bring Carrabba’s broccoli to life? Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start with your fresh broccoli. Take those florets and give them a good rinse. After washing, make sure to dry them out well. No one wants soggy broccoli! A thorough drying helps achieve that delightful crispiness when sautéed.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic once the oil shimmers. Keep an eye on it — we want it fragrant, not burnt! Stir the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s golden and aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Now, add the dried broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir them around in the olive oil and garlic mix for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be bright green and tender while maintaining some crunch.
Step 4: Season and Add Lemon
Once the broccoli is cooked, sprinkle in salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and lemon juice over the top. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to marry for a minute or two.
Step 5: Finish with Zest and Cheese
Take your dish off the heat and add lemon zest. Just before serving, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This brings a savory finish that is sure to please.
Notes: Tips for Making Carrabba’s Broccoli
- Buy Fresh: Opt for fresh broccoli rather than frozen for the best flavor and texture.
- Mind the Heat: Keep your skillet at medium heat to prevent burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Adjust Spice: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Not everyone enjoys the heat!
- Try Different Cheese: While Parmesan shines here, feel free to experiment with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Add a Crunch: For added texture, toss in some toasted almond slivers or pine nuts just before serving.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to handle them:
- Refrigerate: Store your broccoli in an airtight container. It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to save it longer, cool the broccoli completely, place it in a freezer-safe container, and enjoy within 1-2 months.
Nutrition Information
Let’s break down the numbers. One serving of Carrabba’s broccoli has:
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
This dish packs a punch in vitamins, especially Vitamin C, and does so while keeping calorie counts reasonable.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy Carrabba’s broccoli in all its glory, consider these options:
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and seasoned chicken pairs well with the freshness of the broccoli.
- Pasta Primavera: Add your broccoli to a bowl of pasta loaded with seasonal veggies for a colorful meal.
- Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: The zesty shrimp will complement the flavors in the broccoli beautifully.
- Zesty Quinoa Salad: Mix it in with quinoa, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a nutritious twist.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: As a side or part of the filling, broccoli adds crunch and flavor to this popular dish.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Carrabba’s Broccoli?
If you’re in the mood for a twist, here are some substitutes you can use:
- Cauliflower: A similar texture and flavor, cauliflower can serve as a delightful substitute while retaining nutritional value.
- Asparagus: For a spring feel, asparagus tips can replace broccoli in this recipe, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts can handle the same preparation, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
- Green Beans: Tender green beans can add a fresh crunch and color to the dish.
- Zucchini: Sautéed zucchini slices can add a mild taste and additional moisture.
Carrabba’s Broccoli Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice squeezed
- 1 ½ lbs broccoli florets washed and thoroughly dried (I prefer pre-washed)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest for added citrusy brightness
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Start with your fresh broccoli. Take those florets and give them a good rinse. After washing, make sure to dry them out well. No one wants soggy broccoli! A thorough drying helps achieve that delightful crispiness when sautéed.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic once the oil shimmers. Keep an eye on it — we want it fragrant, not burnt! Stir the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s golden and aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Now, add the dried broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir them around in the olive oil and garlic mix for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be bright green and tender while maintaining some crunch.
Step 4: Season and Add Lemon
- Once the broccoli is cooked, sprinkle in salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and lemon juice over the top. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to marry for a minute or two.
Step 5: Finish with Zest and Cheese
- Take your dish off the heat and add lemon zest. Just before serving, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This brings a savory finish that is sure to please.
Notes
- Buy Fresh: Opt for fresh broccoli rather than frozen for the best flavor and texture.
- Mind the Heat: Keep your skillet at medium heat to prevent burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Adjust Spice: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Not everyone enjoys the heat!
- Try Different Cheese: While Parmesan shines here, feel free to experiment with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Add a Crunch: For added texture, toss in some toasted almond slivers or pine nuts just before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
While fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen broccoli if it’s all you have. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly dry it before cooking.
2. How can I make this dish vegan?
You can easily make Carrabba’s broccoli vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with nutritional yeast, which gives a cheesy flavor without dairy.
3. Is Carrabba’s broccoli gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those on gluten-free diets.
4. Can I make Carrabba’s broccoli ahead of time?
You can prepare the broccoli ahead of time, but it’s best to serve it fresh for optimal taste and texture. If necessary, reheat it on the stovetop in a pan to help restore its freshness.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and flavor.
6. What if I don’t like garlic?
If garlic isn’t your thing, you can skip it or use garlic powder for a milder taste. However, I suggest trying it — the garlic truly enhances the overall flavor!
Conclusion
In closing, Carrabba’s broccoli is more than just a side dish. It’s a delicious, nutritious companion that complements a wide variety of mains. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a dish that not only brings vibrancy to your table but also warms the heart.
Whether it’s grilled chicken, pasta, or a simple sandwich, this broccoli elevates any meal. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of simple yet mouthwatering cooking. Let’s embrace the flavors and health benefits of this magnificent vegetable together! Happy cooking!
