Why blanch the broccoli for this recipe?

Blanching the broccoli for just three minutes ensures it remains tender-crisp and vibrant green, stopping the cooking process with an ice bath or cold water rinse.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh mint and basil?

While fresh mint and basil are key to the dish's bright flavor and slight crispiness, you could substitute dried herbs in a pinch, using about 1/3 the amount.

Why does the recipe call for both white and yellow onions?

Using both white and yellow onions adds a layered sweetness and depth to the sauteed mixture, complementing the earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs.

Can I substitute other nuts for the pistachios?

Yes, while pistachios add a unique crunch and flavor, you could substitute other coarsely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a similar textural element.

How should I store leftover blanched broccoli with herbs and pistachios?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, though the herbs may lose some crispness.

5K Views 11 years ago

Nutrient-Dense Blanched Broccoli With Fresh Herbs and Pistachios
[Vegan]

AH By: Amy Height

Author Bio

Healthy plant-based recipes to nourish your body and soul. Amy Height is the founder of From... Read More

Order with Instacart Download Our App

Vibrant blanched broccoli platter topped with sauteed crimini mushrooms, onions, crunchy pistachios, fresh mint, basil, and flake salt.

For brands

Want to reach our audience?

Partner with One Green Planet →

Discover more recipes with these ingredients

Nutrient-Dense Blanched Broccoli With Fresh Herbs and Pistachios [Vegan]

Dairy Free

This yummy side dish (or plant-tastic main!) was an attempt to take advantage of the beautiful CSA produce we get this time of year. As far as side dishes go, it's about as nutritiously dense as you get: the broccoli - always a favorite in the green veggie category -... Read More

Ingredients You Need for Nutrient-Dense Blanched Broccoli With Fresh Herbs and Pistachios [Vegan]

1 head broccoli cut lengthwise and halved, stems included*
1/4 cup coconut oil
3 minced garlic cloves
1 white onion, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
1 1/2 cups crimini mushrooms, coarsely chopped (stems removed)
1/3 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped
handful of mint leaves
handful of basil leaves
sea salt to taste

Order with Instacart Download Our App

How to Prepare Nutrient-Dense Blanched Broccoli With Fresh Herbs and Pistachios [Vegan]

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium sauce pan. Add broccoli and set a timer for 3 minutes. In the meantime, prepare a colander in the sink alongside a large bowl of ice water. When timer goes off, drain broccoli and immediately transfer to the ice water to stop the cooking process. Alternatively, you can skip the ice water and leave the broccoli in the colander -- just turn the cold water on to run over it. (The ice bath is just more eco-friendly.) Set broccoli aside.
Heat oil in medium skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 30 seconds. Add onions, cooking for about 2 minutes more. At this point, drain your broccoli.
Add mushrooms. Cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When mushrooms have softened and onions are translucent, add in pistachios, stirring to combine. Allow to cook together 1 minute.
Add fresh herbs and cook 2 minutes more, until mint and basil are just a little crispy. Remove skillet from heat.
Transfer broccoli to a serving platter, spoon sautee mixture over the top and sprinkle with sea salt to taste. I used a few generous pinches of flake salt spread evenly across the top. Serve!