Sautéed Broccoli with Almond Sauce

Broccoli is just so good for you! It’s a low starch, low calorie veggie that is packed with healthy nutrients and fiber that contributes to satiety. Several micronutrients in broccoli are known to support weight loss, and the phytochemicals it contains show potential for breaking down fats. One phytonutrient, called sulforaphane is particularly effective at helping to burn belly fat, said a study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

If you are not a big fan, try finding different ways of cooking it, sauces to drizzle on top, or dishes to hide it in so it can become part of your diet. Check out this broccoli recipe with a creamy fresh almond sauce that makes all the difference. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

• 8 cups broccoli florets (2-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
• ½ cup sliced yellow onion
• 3 medium cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/4 cup almond butter made with the NutraMilk
• 2 ½ tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

For almond butter

• 2 cups (300g) almonds
• 1/8 teaspoon Pink Himalayan salt (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

• Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a large pot fitted with a steamer basket. Add broccoli, cover and cook until tender-crisp, 3 to 4 minutes.
• Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper, onion and garlic; cook, stirring often, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes.

• Add the steamed broccoli and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes.
• Whisk peanut butter, tamari, vinegar, sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Stir into the vegetables.

• Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Prepared and photographed by NutraMilk nutritionist, Florencia Tagliavini.

Recipe inspired by Eating Well.