Broccoli has a habit of lingering in the fridge. You buy it with the best intentions, add it to one meal, and then you’re left wondering what to do with the rest before it starts looking a little sad.
Whether you’ve got a whole head to use up, a handful of florets left over, or even the stalk sitting in your crisper drawer, these broccoli recipes prove there’s no shortage of delicious possibilities. Here are some of our favourite broccoli recipes to help you waste less and eat well.
1. Creamy broccoli soup
Nothing beats a bowl of creamy broccoli soup on a chilly day. It’s rich, comforting and simple to make, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or lunch prep option. Pair it with crusty bread for a meal that feels like a warm hug.
2. Broccoli and cheddar pasta bake
When in doubt, add cheese. Tender broccoli baked with pasta in a creamy cheddar sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that’s guaranteed to become a family favourite.
ALSO SEE: Creamy bacon and broccoli pasta
3. Roasted broccoli salad
Roasting broccoli transforms its flavour, bringing out nutty, caramelised notes that pair beautifully with grains, leafy greens, toasted nuts and a punchy dressing. It’s a simple way to turn broccoli into the star of the plate.
4. Broccoli quiche
Got eggs in the fridge? A broccoli quiche is always a good idea. It works equally well for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed warm or cold the next day.
5. Broccoli fritters
These crispy little fritters are a clever way to use up leftover cooked broccoli. Serve them with yoghurt, sour cream or your favourite dipping sauce for an easy snack or light meal.
6. Beef and broccoli stir-fry
For a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavour, you can’t go wrong with a classic beef and broccoli stir-fry. It’s ready in minutes and pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.
ALSO SEE: Spinach, broccoli and peanut stir-fry
7. Broccoli pesto pasta
Who says pesto has to be made with basil? Broccoli creates a deliciously creamy sauce that’s packed with goodness while helping you use up extra florets in the fridge.
8. Broccoli gratin
Creamy, cheesy and topped with a golden crust, broccoli gratin is the side dish that often steals the show. Serve it alongside roast chicken, grilled steak or simply enjoy it on its own.
9. Chicken and broccoli pie
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a golden pie filled with tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it ideal for batch cooking.
10. Broccoli fried rice
Leftover rice? Leftover broccoli? You’ve already got the beginnings of dinner. Add eggs, soy sauce and whatever vegetables you have on hand for a quick, flavour-packed meal that helps reduce food waste.
11. Broccoli and feta tart
Flaky pastry, creamy feta and fresh broccoli are a match made in heaven. This savoury tart looks impressive enough for guests but is easy enough to make any day of the week.
Don’t forget the broccoli stalk
One of the biggest kitchen mistakes is throwing away the broccoli stalk. Once peeled, it’s tender, mildly sweet and just as nutritious as the florets. Grate it into salads and slaws, slice it into stir-fries, blend it into soups or roast it alongside the florets for zero-waste cooking.
ALSO SEE: Too much spinach? Here’s how to use every last leaf
Feature image: Pexels
