Of all the vegetables in all the world, broccoli is surely the most maligned. This succulent stalk need not be drowned in a heavy sauce or boiled into oblivion. Rather a luxurious steam bath will release that tender flavor.

Ready

• Broccoli (⅓ lb per person

Set

• Pot of boiling water
• Bamboo Steamer, Steamer, or even a plate*

Go

1. Wash and cut broccoli into bite sized pieces.
2. Steam broccoli over a pot of boiling water (roughly 4 minutes)
3. Cook to desired tenderness (I like al dente) by taste testing a small piece every few minutes.
4. Remove to serving dish.
5. Add a pinch of salt and serve.

What you should know

• if you don’t have a steamer you can always put a heat-proof plate inside a large pot and fill with enough water to boil but not so much that it will spill over the lip of the plate. Place broccoli on plate, cover and steam.