Caramelized Broccoli with Garlic

Here, chef David Gingrass slowly caramelizes broccoli to bring out its sweetness, then enlivens it with a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of crushed red pepper. The resulting broccoli is tender, flavorful, and makes an easy side dish.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 heads of broccoli (1 1/4 pounds total), stems peeled and heads halved lengthwise
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• Pinch of crushed red pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a large, deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the broccoli, cut side down, cover, and cook over moderate heat until richly browned on the bottom, about 8 minutes.

Step 2

Add the water, cover, and cook until the broccoli is just tender and the water has evaporated, about 7 minutes.

Step 3

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the garlic and the crushed red pepper and cook uncovered until the garlic is golden brown, about 3 minutes. Drizzle with the lemon juice, season the broccoli with salt and black pepper, and serve.