Legume Free Lemon & Olive Oil Broccoli Mash
Bright, garlicky, and finished with a hit of lemon, this broccoli mash is the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show at the dinner table. Steaming the florets and stems together until completely tender is the key move here — it gives you a mash that's silky or chunky depending on your mood, with no starchiness or heaviness. Garlic bloomed slowly in good olive oil adds a depth that makes the whole thing taste far more involved than it actually is. A pinch of turmeric brings a warm golden hue and a subtle earthiness that plays beautifully against the bright lemon zest and juice. For anyone navigating a legume-free lifestyle, this is the kind of comfort food that requires zero substitutions or workarounds — every single ingredient is naturally in bounds. Fresh parsley scattered over the top at the end adds a little color and a pop of freshness that ties it all together. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or honestly just eat it straight from the bowl with an extra drizzle of olive oil.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
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.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!