Black Pepper Free Lemon & Olive Oil Broccoli Mash
Bright, garlicky, and finished with a hit of citrus, this broccoli mash is the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show at the dinner table. The broccoli is steamed until completely tender, then mashed with garlic-infused olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice — layers of flavor that feel anything but plain. A pinch of turmeric adds a warm, golden hue and a subtle earthiness that makes the whole bowl look as good as it tastes. For anyone navigating a black pepper sensitivity, this recipe is genuinely satisfying proof that bold flavor doesn't require that familiar spice — the lemon and garlic do all the heavy lifting. You can keep it rustic and chunky or push it toward a smoother purée depending on your mood, and a final drizzle of good olive oil over the top makes it feel a little luxurious. Fresh parsley scattered over the surface adds a pop of color and a clean, herby finish. It works beautifully alongside roasted proteins, grain bowls, or honestly just eaten straight from the bowl with crusty bread.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 lbs broccoli (about 2 medium heads), cut into florets, stems peeled and roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Fill a large pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the broccoli florets and chopped stems, cover, and steam until completely tender and a fork slides through the thickest stem piece with no resistance, 10–12 minutes. Drain thoroughly in a colander and let sit for 1 minute to allow excess steam to escape.
- 2
While the broccoli steams, warm the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant but not browned, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
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