Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

1. Cut the Broccoli:

Start by cutting the broccoli head into florets. If the stems are thick, peel and slice them into bite-sized pieces so nothing goes to waste.

2. Rinse the Broccoli:

Rinse the broccoli florets and stems under cold water, then pat them dry. It’s important to remove excess moisture, as this will help the broccoli sauté more evenly and achieve a nice sear.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. Heat the Oil:

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.

2. Cook the Garlic:

Add the sliced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Once the garlic is golden, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

1. Add the Broccoli to the Pan:

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the broccoli florets to the pan. Spread them out in an even layer to ensure they cook evenly. Let them sauté undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a slight char.

2. Add Water or Broth:

After the broccoli has sautéed for a few minutes and developed some color, add ¼ cup of water (or vegetable broth) to the pan. This will create steam, helping to cook the broccoli more evenly while keeping it crisp-tender.

3. Cover and Cook:

Cover the pan with a lid and let the broccoli steam for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes bright green and just tender. If you like your broccoli softer, you can let it cook for an extra minute or two.

Step 4: Season the Broccoli

1. Add the Garlic Back In:

Once the broccoli is cooked to your liking, remove the lid and stir in the sautéed garlic. This infuses the broccoli with a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering it.

2. Season with Lemon Juice:

Squeeze the juice of ½ a lemon over the broccoli for a burst of brightness. The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the oil and adds a fresh, tangy note to the dish.

3. Season with Salt and Pepper:

Season the broccoli with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Your Perfect Sautéed Broccoli is now ready to serve! For extra flavor and texture, consider garnishing the broccoli with Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.