Grilled broccoli is a quick and easy way to add an incredible flavor to this staple veggie – perfect as a side dish for your next cookout or summertime dinner.
Preheat your grill to medium heat. It should already be hot when you start cooking – this helps things cook evenly.
Clean the broccoli by washing it under water and patting it dry. Then, cut or pull apart the broccoli into even-sized florets.
Grate or mince the garlic, then mix it with the oil and spices in a small bowl.
In a larger bowl, add the broccoli florets and pour the oil mixture over the top of it. Toss the broccoli well until it's completely coated.
Place the oiled florets over a large piece of aluminum foil and cover with a second. Fold the edges together in a tight seal so they create a parcel.
Grill
Place the broccoli parcel on the hot grill and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender and crisp.
To ensure an even cook on the grilled broccoli, I like to open up the parcel halfway through grilling and tossing / flipping the florets so they cook properly on both sides. This will give them a nice char and stop them from burning on one side – but it is optional.
To make ahead and store
Make ahead: You can wash, dry, and cut the broccoli a day ahead. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to grill, make sure to coat it well with the oil mixture. Store: Keep leftovers in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 3-5 days. Reheat: Place back on the grill or in a heated skilled until warmed through.
Video
Notes
Even Pieces: Even pieces are the only way to grill broccoli that’s perfectly cooked every time. Use uniform-sized pieces so they all cook evenly and don't burn on one side.
Use Foil: Making a tray out of aluminum foil (and making a lid for it) will steam your broccoli beautifully as it grills, maintaining the vibrant green color. Just make sure to open up the foil and flip the broccoli so it cooks evenly.
Flavor Boost: You can elevate the taste with olive oil, garlic, and your choice of spices. Black and red pepper, ginger, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, or fresh basil are all great additions to broccoli.
Customize Crunchiness: For crunchier grilled broccoli, partially uncover the foil package during grilling – it’ll let more direct heat cook the broccoli.
When It’s Done: Using a fork, test the broccoli when the cooking time is up – it should be tender, but not overly mushy.