Steamed broccoli with butter and salt
Steamed broccoli with butter and salt is a classic, simple side dish made by gently cooking fresh broccoli florets until tender-crisp, then tossing them with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt. It is a staple in Western cuisine, particularly in American and European home cooking, valued for its ease of preparation and ability to highlight the vegetable's natural flavor.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is low in carbohydrates and protein, with most of its calories coming from the fat in the butter. It is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and folate, with a typical serving containing roughly 50-80 calories depending on the amount of butter used.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Carbs | 7 g |
| Fat | 5.5 g |
| Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugar | 2.5 g |
| Sodium | 290 mg |
| Vitamin C | 81 mg |
| Vitamin K | 110 mcg |
| Potassium | 460 mg |
| Vitamin A | 560 IU |
| Folate | 100 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 33 mg |
Per 1 cup (156 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The preparation method of steaming is celebrated for preserving the broccoli's vibrant green color and maximizing nutrient retention compared to boiling. Culturally, it represents a 'back-to-basics' approach to vegetables, where minimal seasoning allows the ingredient's fresh, slightly earthy taste to shine.
