Steamed broccoli has never been easier—or more delicious—than with this Instant Pot recipe. In just 12 minutes, you’ll have tender-crisp florets bursting with vibrant green color and a satisfying bite. The gentle steam locks in nutrients, ensuring every forkful is packed with vitamins and a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal.
This quick, fuss-free method delivers broccoli that’s perfectly cooked—never mushy or bland. With a hint of natural sweetness and a light, refreshing crunch, it’s a guilt-free side dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this recipe is your go-to for wholesome, flavorful veggies in no time.
What You’ll Need
- ¾ cup water (for steaming)
- 12 ounces broccoli heads (cut into florets for even cooking)
- Salt and pepper (to taste; adjust based on preference)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for a bright, tangy finish)
How to Make It
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour the water into the basin of the Instant Pot. Place the steamer basket above the water, ensuring it sits securely.
- Add the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets into the steamer basket. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Steam the Broccoli: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 0 minutes. (Yes, 0 minutes! The broccoli will cook as the pot comes to pressure.)
- Release Pressure: Once the Instant Pot reaches pressure, immediately perform a manual pressure release. Carefully remove the lid once the pressure is fully released.
- Finish with Flavor: If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the steamed broccoli for a zesty kick. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Quick & Flavorful Topping Ideas
Elevate your steamed broccoli with simple yet delicious toppings! Try drizzling it with garlic-infused olive oil or sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese for a savory twist. For a touch of crunch, add toasted almonds or sesame seeds. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a burst of flavor.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This steamed broccoli is a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or garlic butter shrimp for a balanced meal. It also complements quinoa or brown rice for a light, healthy lunch. Don’t forget to add a slice of crusty bread to round out your plate!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftover steamed broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam it for a few minutes on the stovetop or microwave it with a splash of water to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking to keep the broccoli crisp and vibrant. For longer storage, you can freeze it, but note that the texture may soften slightly.
Time-Saving Tricks for Busy Cooks
If you’re short on time, prep your broccoli ahead by washing and cutting it into florets the night before. Store them in a ziplock bag in the fridge for quick use. You can also double the recipe and save half for later—steamed broccoli reheats beautifully and makes meal prep a breeze!
Common Questions Answered
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just add an extra minute to the cooking time. Why 0 minutes on high pressure? The Instant Pot takes time to come to pressure, which cooks the broccoli perfectly without overcooking it. Can I skip the lemon? Of course! The lemon is optional, but it adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the broccoli beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli (In the Instant Pot) Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup water
- 12 ounces broccoli heads
- salt and pepper to taste
- juice of 1 lemon optional
Instructions
- Load the pressure cooker. Pour the water into the basin of the pressure cooker and then set the steamer above it. Add the broccoli to the steamer. Season the broccoli with salt and pepper to taste.
- Steam. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 0 minutes. Once the Instant Pot comes to pressure, release the pressure manually and remove the lid.
- Add some flavor. Squeeze the lemon over the broccoli if you’d like.