Around the Campfire
Griddled broccoli is a practical camp side for nights when dinner needs something green. It works with chicken, steak, salmon, fried rice, or bowls.
Why This Recipe Works
A short steam or pre-cook gets broccoli tender, then the Blackstone adds browning and garlic flavor.
Quick Facts
- Serves: 4
- Heat zone: Medium
- Best for: Chicken, salmon, rice bowls, quick vegetable sides
- Teaches: Tender first, brown second
Shopping List
- Broccoli florets
- Oil
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
Home Prep
Cut broccoli into small florets before the trip. Briefly blanch or steam ahead if desired.
Cooler Packing
Keep broccoli dry and sealed. Keep garlic separate.
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
Heat Zones
Use medium heat and give the vegetables room to caramelize rather than steam.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads), cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons oil (such as olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle to medium (325-375°F).
- If desired, steam or microwave the broccoli for 2-3 minutes before griddling to help tenderize.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon oil on the griddle and spread out broccoli in a single layer. Let cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss broccoli, drizzle remaining oil, and continue cooking, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and tender-crisp (about 7-8 minutes).
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the broccoli for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, tossing to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Doneness
Broccoli should be tender-crisp and hot throughout.
Common Mistakes
- Adding garlic too early.
- Using pieces that are too large.
- Cooking until mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with chicken, steak, salmon, rice bowls, or fried rice. Great finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil if desired.
Variations
- Add lemon.
- Add Parmesan.
- Add sesame oil.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: As written.
- Dairy-free: Use oil instead of butter.
- Vegan: As written.
Scaling
Cook in batches for larger groups.
Weather Notes
Small florets cook faster in wind.
Leftovers
Use leftovers in omelets, fried rice, wraps, or bowls.
Kid Helper Tasks
Kids can add lemon or Parmesan after cooking.
Dragonfly Tip
Garlic goes in at the end. Broccoli can take heat; garlic cannot.
Dragonfly Challenge
Try one batch with lemon and one with Parmesan. Pick the better camp side.