Applebee’s Restaurant chain has been a favorite among many since it opened its doors in 1980. Known for its casual and friendly atmosphere, Applebee’s has become the go-to spot for hanging out with friends and family while enjoying delicious food.
One of their most popular menu items is their broccoli side dish – perfectly cooked broccoli in a flavorful garlic sauce. In this guide, we will show you how to recreate this beloved dish at home with our easy step-by-step instructions.
What is Applebees broccoli?
Applebee’s broccoli is a simple yet flavorful side dish that consists of steamed broccoli in a garlic and olive oil sauce. It is often served as a side dish with main entrees, but can also be enjoyed on its own.
The restaurant-quality taste of this dish has made it a fan-favorite among Applebee’s customers. The key to making perfect Applebee’s broccoli lies in the method of cooking – steaming the broccoli allows it to retain its vibrant green color and nutrients while also giving it a tender texture.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this dish at home and enjoy the taste of Applebee’s in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Want more Broccoli Recipes? Check them out!
- Costco Broccoli Salad
- Brenda Gantt Broccoli Salad
- Uncle Ben’s Broccoli Rice Au Gratin
- Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Cheesecake Factory
Why You’ll Love This Applebees Broccoli?
There are many reasons why you will love this Applebee’s broccoli recipe. Firstly, it is a quick and easy side dish that can be made in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Secondly, this dish is packed with flavor from the garlic and olive oil sauce, elevating simple steamed broccoli to a whole new level. It’s also a great way to get your daily serving of vegetables in a delicious and enjoyable way.
Lastly, this is versatile – you can serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into other dishes such as stir-fries or pasta dishes for an added nutritional boost.
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Ingredients
- Garlic: This calls for 8 cloves of garlic, which may seem like a lot but it adds an amazing flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are used in this, but you can also use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to defrost and pat dry before using.
- Extra virgin olive oil: This is used to cook the broccoli, and it adds a delicious flavor to the dish. You can also use your preferred cooking oil if you don’t have olive oil on hand.
- Salt and pepper: These two basic seasonings are essential in bringing out the flavors of the dish.
- Water: A small amount of water is added to the pan to help steam and cook the broccoli.
Directions
Step 1
Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Make sure to dry them properly before cooking. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2
Once the oil is hot, add in chopped garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
Step 3
Pour in the water, cover the pan with a lid, and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the broccoli is tender. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
Step 4
Remove from heat and serve hot as a side dish or add it to your favorite stir-fry recipe. You can also top it with some Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost!
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly dry the broccoli before cooking to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference.
- If using frozen broccoli, make sure to defrost and pat dry before using this recipe.
Storage Tips
This dish is best served fresh and hot, but if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
To reheat, simply place the broccoli in a pan and heat over low-medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra water to prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ideas on how you can serve and enjoy this delicious Applebee’s broccoli recipe:
- As a side dish with your favorite main entrees such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Add it to salads for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Mix it into omelets or frittatas for a quick and easy breakfast option.
- Incorporate it into stir-fries or pasta dishes for a nutrient-packed meal.
- Use it as a topping on homemade pizza for added flavor and texture.
What other substitute can I use for Applebees Broccoli?
Here are a few substitutes you can use for Applebee’s broccoli:
- Cauliflower: You can substitute cauliflower for broccoli in this recipe, just follow the same cooking instructions.
- Green beans: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can use green beans instead. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Asparagus: Another great vegetable substitute for this dish is asparagus. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking method.
- Brussels sprouts: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using Brussels sprouts instead of broccoli for a delicious twist on this dish.
Applebees Broccoli Recipe
Equipment
- large skillet
- Stirrer, etc.
Ingredients
Garlic Infusion:
- 8 cloves of garlic finely chopped
Fresh Broccoli:
- 8 cups of crisp broccoli florets
Seasoning and Cooking Medium:
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper precisely measured according to taste
Moisture Enhancement:
- 1/2 cup of water ensuring a perfect steam for the broccoli
Instructions
- Begin by washing and trimming the broccoli into bite-sized florets, making sure to properly dry them before cooking. Heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is heated, add in the finely chopped garlic and cook for approximately one minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, carefully place the broccoli florets into the pan, seasoning them with a touch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Thoroughly mix everything together.
- Pour a small amount of water into the pan, covering it tightly with a lid, and allow it to cook for approximately 8-10 minutes or until the broccoli is tender. Once done, lift the lid and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
- Remove from heat and serve the delicious broccoli hot as a hearty side dish or incorporate it into your favorite stir-fry.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly dry the broccoli before cooking to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference.
- If using frozen broccoli, make sure to defrost and pat dry before using this recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, just make sure to defrost and pat dry before cooking.
Is this dish vegan/vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, it is both vegan and vegetarian-friendly. Just make sure to check the ingredients used for any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Is this keto-friendly?
This dish is naturally low in carbs, but it does contain garlic which may not be suitable for a strict keto diet. You can adjust the amount of garlic used or omit it altogether if needed.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Applebee’s broccoli at home, you can enjoy this tasty side dish anytime you want! Perfectly cooked broccoli in a flavorful garlic sauce – what’s not to love?
So next time you’re craving some Applebee’s broccoli, skip the takeout and try making it yourself with this easy and delicious recipe. So go ahead, give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.