Xanthan Gum 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 makes you wonder why you ever bothered with plain steamed vegetables. The broccoli is steamed until completely tender, then mashed with garlic-infused olive oil, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of turmeric for a golden, vibrant finish. You can keep it rustic and chunky or push it toward a smoother purée — either way, it's deeply savory and satisfying. For anyone navigating a diet that rules out common thickeners and stabilizers, this recipe is naturally in the clear: every bit of body and creaminess comes from the broccoli itself and a generous pour of good olive oil. No additives, no fillers, no workarounds needed. A final drizzle of olive oil and a scatter of fresh parsley pull the whole bowl together and make it look genuinely impressive on the table. It works beautifully alongside roasted proteins or grain dishes, and leftovers reheat without losing any of that bright, herby character.
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!