Can I make grilled broccoli ahead of time?

To prepare your grilled broccoli ahead of time, you can cut the broccoli beforehand, but do not toss it with seasoning until it’s ready to be folded in the foil. Once it’s grilled, it’s best served fresh. Any leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-5 days if stored in an air-tight container, and then reheated in the microwave.

Do I need to steam the broccoli beforehand?

We tried grilling broccoli without the foil packet and it was dry and got burnt easily. One way to get around that is to steam it first to soften it so that grilling is faster. However, we found that it was much easier to skip the steaming step and to use a foil packet instead! Since the broccoli is cooked in foil it will create its own steam, softening the broccoli and allowing it to sear and brown! So, you don’t need to steam your broccoli before grilling in a foil packet.

Easy Grilled Broccoli in Foil

Description

If you’re wondering if you can grill broccoli, then I am here to tell you that you most certainly can. I have all the details about how to make it as easy, foolproof and mess-free as possible. This foil packet method yields perfectly tender yet lightly seared florets, without burning or losing any pieces between the grill grates. Plus, I have seasoned the grilled broccoli with a simple combination of pantry staples: sesame seeds, garlic powder and seasoned rice vinegar.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large crowns broccoli, stems and florets cut into bite-sized florets and pieces

1 tablespoon avocado oil or canola oil

3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

2 teaspoon seasoned rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame seeds, optional

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Instructions

Preheat grill to medium heat. Meanwhile, combine broccoli, oil, salt, and garlic powder in a large bowl and toss to coat.
Lay a 2-foot long sheet of heavy-duty foil on work surface. If using regular foil, use two layers. Pile the broccoli in the center and fold to wrap the foil into a packet. Crimp closed.
Add the foil packet to the grill. Grill for 15 minutes, turning the packet over with tongs every 4 minutes.
Remove the foil packet from the grill using a sheet pan and tongs. Use caution when opening packet, steam will escape.
Transfer the broccoli to the bowl and drizzle with the vinegar. Toss to coat. Serve immediately sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Notes

Ingredient Note:

Seasoned rice vinegar is rice vinegar with the addition of salt, sugar, and sometimes additional flavors. It helps to balance any bitterness in the broccoli while not being too acidic. While it is not a sugar-free ingredient, the amount of sugar it adds to each serving is less than 1 gram. If you cannot find it, you can substitute rice vinegar stirred with a pinch each of salt and sugar.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Active Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dishes
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3/4 cup
Calories: 46
Sugar: 2 g
Fat: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 2 g