6 Surprising Broccoli Sides

No Comments | Written on March 1, 2012 at 3:00 pm, by The Editors

There’s no doubt broccoli is good for you—it’s loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and other cancer-fighting compounds. And it’s delicious all by itself, either steamed with a little bit of sweet-cream butter or roasted with a drizzle of olive oil.

But don’t get stuck in a broccoli rut! There are plenty of imaginative side dishes you can put together with this relative of the cabbage family. (Did you know the part we eat is actually the plant’s flower? Which is why they’re called florets.)

Sometimes it’s hard to know what else to do with broccoli, so we’ve got six side dishes guaranteed to win you raves at the dinner table. Choose from a rich, creamy gratin made with smoky Gouda cheese, or keep things light and fresh with a fruit and broccoli salad. (The combination works, trust us.) Give them a try, and leave steamed broccoli in the dust.

Our favorite of the bunch? Grilled Broccoli with Olives (pictured above)—the appealing char on the florets contrasts beautifully with the pleasing saltiness of the olives. It’s a nice side for barbecued beef or chops.

Saucy Broccoli and Jicama: Broccoli, spicy salsa, and crisp-tender jicama add up to a surprising—and delectable—side. Bonus: Using jarred salsa really cuts down on prep time.

Broccoli-Cauliflower Bake: This creamy, cheesy bake will make vegetable fans out of even the pickiest child. The contrast between the white and green florets also make it visually appealing.

Fruit and Broccoli Salad: Broccoli sides don’t have to be heavy—this slaw-like salad is unexpectedly light. You can find prepackaged slaw in most grocery stores, which makes assembling this salad a breeze.

Smoky Gouda-Sauced Broccoli: Rich Gouda cheese and golden brown bread crumbs? Broccoli has never been this happy. This side would be right at home next to pork chops or baked chicken.

Spicy Broccoli-Mango Salad: This broccoli salad is a masterful combination of flavors: sweet mango, spicy pecans, and tangy dressing. Bring it out at your next barbecue and be prepared for the raves that will follow.