Broccoli with Red Pepper Flakes and Garlic Chips
Broccoli, containing vitamins A and C and several minerals, as well as fiber, is one of the most healthful vegetables. This version is drizzled with spicy red pepper oil and garnished with crisp garlic chips.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbs. thin, crosswise-cut garlic slices
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 1 bunch broccoli, about 1 1/2 lb.
Directions
In a small fry pan over medium-low heat, combine the olive oil, garlic and red pepper flakes. Heat, stirring, just until the garlic begins to turn golden on the edges, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Place a small, fine-mesh sieve over a heatproof bowl and pour the oil through it. Reserve the oil and the contents of the sieve separately.
Trim off 1/2 inch from the stem ends of the broccoli stalks, then peel the tough outer layer from the stalks. Cut off the florets and the slender stems from the tops of the stalks, trimming them so that they are 1 to 2 inches long. Cut the large stalks crosswise into slices 1/4 inch thick.
Place all the cut broccoli in a steamer rack set over boiling water, cover tightly and cook until tender, 4 to 6 minutes.
Transfer the broccoli to a warmed serving dish. Drizzle with 2 tsp. of the reserved garlic oil and toss to coat. Reserve the remaining oil for another use. Sprinkle with the crisp garlic slices and red pepper flakes and serve. Serves 4.
Adapted from Williams-Sonoma, Essentials of Healthful Cooking, by Mary Abbott Hess, Dana Jacobi & Marie Simmons (Oxmoor House, 2003).
