What To Serve With Broccoli? 15 BEST Side Dishes

Broccoli, with its unique flavor profile and excellent health benefits, is a beloved vegetable in many households, including my own. But the question always arises - what should we serve alongside this versatile green?

If you're like me, always hunting for innovative ideas to bring more delight to your dining table, this list will definitely interest you. So let's dive into 15 amazing side dishes that elevate a simple broccoli meal.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best dishes to serve with broccoli are cashew chicken, mongolian beef, brown rice and vegetables, quinoa, lo mein, fried shrimp, crispy tofu, steak fajitas, garlic bread, parmesan roasted potatoes, grilled chicken, baked salmon, spinach salad, cauliflower rice, and couscous.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Cashew Chicken

One of my absolute favorites to serve with broccoli is cashew chicken. The succulent pieces of chicken combined with the crunchy cashews create a contrast that's hard to resist. Its rich, salty, and slightly sweet sauce coats the broccoli beautifully, making every bite a delightful surprise. Pro tip: garnish with some spring onions for that extra pop of color and flavor.

2. Mongolian Beef

Mongolian beef is another top pick for a side with broccoli. This dish, known for its tender strips of beef simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, is simply mouthwatering. The robust flavors of the beef complement the earthy taste of broccoli, creating a harmonious blend. It's an exotic touch that's sure to impress at your next family dinner.

3. Brown Rice and Vegetables

Sometimes, simplicity wins the day, and that's where brown rice and vegetables come in. This dish, packed with nutritious veggies and hearty brown rice, offers a wholesome and filling side for broccoli. The varying textures of the veggies combined with the comforting chewiness of the rice is a pleasing contrast to the soft crunch of the broccoli.

4. Quinoa

Quinoa, this fluffy and slightly nutty grain, is a great accompaniment to broccoli. High in protein and fiber, it's an excellent choice if you're going for a healthier meal. Its subtle flavor allows the broccoli to shine while adding a nice textural element to your plate.

5. Lo Mein

Who can resist the call of a delicious bowl of Lo Mein? Not me, that's for sure. The soft, slurpy noodles tossed with a variety of vegetables in a soy-based sauce is an irresistible side dish for broccoli. The umami-rich flavor of the Lo Mein pairs perfectly with the mild taste of broccoli, creating a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

6. Fried Shrimp

Fried shrimp, with its crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior, is a fantastic pairing with broccoli. The slight sweetness of the shrimp is a delightful contrast to the earthy broccoli. You can toss the shrimp with some garlic and chili flakes for an added kick.

7. Crispy Tofu

Crispy tofu is a side that is not only delicious but also adds a good dose of protein to your meal. The tofu's crispy exterior and soft interior, especially when seasoned well, offer a pleasant contrast to the crunchy broccoli. If you're cooking for vegetarians or simply want a meatless meal, this is an excellent choice.

8. Steak Fajitas

When I'm looking to spice things up at the dinner table, steak fajitas are my go-to. Juicy strips of steak, vibrant bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with a tangy, smoky mix of spices, bring a burst of flavor that works beautifully with the milder broccoli. The textural contrast between the tender meat and crunchy veggies is a foodie's delight.

9. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread, with its warm, buttery goodness, is another great companion to broccoli. Its crunchy crust and the soft, garlicky interior make it a comfort food classic. Plus, it's perfect for mopping up any leftover sauces or dressings on your plate.

10. Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan roasted potatoes, with their crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, are a mouthwatering addition to any broccoli meal. The salty parmesan forms a beautiful crust on the potatoes, which contrasts nicely with the soft, earthy broccoli.

11. Grilled Chicken

For a protein-packed side, I often turn to grilled chicken. Marinated with herbs and spices, then grilled to juicy perfection, this chicken is full of flavor that pairs well with broccoli. The smoky notes from the grill add an extra layer of depth to the meal.

12. Baked Salmon

Baked salmon, with its rich, buttery flavor, is another excellent protein option to serve with broccoli. The fatty, savory salmon is a nice contrast to the light, earthy broccoli. Drizzle some lemon butter sauce on top for a citrusy kick.

13. Spinach Salad

A fresh spinach salad, complete with your favorite veggies, nuts, and a light vinaigrette, is a refreshing side dish that complements broccoli well. The raw, crisp vegetables in the salad contrast with the cooked broccoli, adding a new dimension to your meal.

14. Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb side, I suggest cauliflower rice. It's light, fluffy, and has a mild flavor that lets the broccoli be the star of the show. You can stir-fry it with some garlic and onions for added flavor.

15. Couscous

Couscous, with its light and fluffy texture, pairs excellently with broccoli. Its mild flavor allows the broccoli to shine while adding a unique textural contrast to your plate.

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