Perfect Every Time Instant Pot Broccoli Recipe

Fresh, steamed broccoli drizzled with garlic herb butter sauce.

Perfect Every Time Instant Pot Broccoli Recipe

If you've ever struggled to get perfectly tender, vibrant green broccoli on the table without overcooking it, this Instant Pot broccoli recipe is a game-changer. In just 10 minutes, you'll have crisp-tender florets infused with bright lemon juice, ready to serve as a wholesome side for any gathering.

Course Side

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Keyword healthy, Instant Pot, quick

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 1

Venting pressure cooker 2

Total Time 8

Servings 1/2 cup

Calories 26

Author Gina Dickson

Ingredients

2 pounds broccoli washed and cut into 3-inch florets
1 cup water
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Homemade Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce Optional - great for drizzling on broccoli

Instructions

Prep the Broccoli

Cut the broccoli into florets, using both the florets and the tender parts of the stems. Discard the tough bottom part of the stems.
2 pounds broccoli
If desired, cut larger florets in half for even cooking.
Rinse the broccoli in cold water to remove any dirt, then drain and pat dry.

Set Up the Instant Pot

Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot and add the lemon juice.
1 cup water, 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Insert the steamer basket and place the broccoli inside.

Cook the Broccoli

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure release valve to “Sealing.”
Select "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" mode on low pressure:
0 minutes for crisp-tender broccoli.
1 minute for a softer texture.
The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the timer starts.

Release Pressure & Serve

Once the cooking time is up, carefully quick-release the pressure by turning the valve to "Venting." Use a towel or oven mitt to protect your hand from the steam.
Remove the steamer basket and transfer the broccoli to a serving dish.
Season to taste and optionally drizzle with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce before serving.
Homemade Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Notes

Tips

For this recipe to work well, you want nice, large broccoli florets that are a few inches wide. Smaller pieces of broccoli will cook too quickly, and they'll end up mushy. Buy large florets or cut your head of broccoli into big chunks for the best results.
Try to cut your broccoli evenly so all your pieces cook to the same consistency.
Broccoli is always best served hot! So try your best to time this so it's finishing up just as you're sitting down to dinner. If you need a few minutes, tent the broccoli with foil to keep some of the heat in.
Drizzle with lemon garlic butter for a serving idea. Recipes: https://intentionalhospitality.com/how-to-make-lemon-garlic-butter-sauce/

Nutrition