When I look at the calendar and see the word “September” I feel that summer is basically over. The autumnal equinox isn’t until September 22, so technically it is still summer in the northern hemisphere. But school is back in session and the leaves on my walnut tree are starting to fall. Summer is ending, for sure.
But before I cover up the grill for the season (ok, that’s actually not going to be for a couple months) I had to share one more grilled veggie: grilled broccoli in foil.
You’ve seen my other grilled veggie posts, right? I’ve grilled zucchini, asparagus and stuffed tomatoes directly on the grill, and potatoes in foil. I’ve grilled beets both directly and in foil. This time, I’m only grilling the broccoli in foil packets. Someday I’ll try grilling it without foil, but I was so delighted with the result when I made foil packets, that I haven’t wanted to try anything else!
What makes broccoli in foil packets so great?
For years I have steamed broccoli in the microwave. It’s so simple, and results in tender delicious broccoli in just a few minutes. I figured putting the broccoli in a foil packet and placing it on the grill would have the same effect. The moisture from the broccoli would release and the foil would enclose the heat and steam, to perfectly cook the broccoli.
I was partially correct.
In addition to the cooking action of the steam, the broccoli also gets a little browned. Because the foil is placed directly on the hot grill grate, some of that high heat causes slightly charred edges on the broccoli. The result is a veggie that tastes both roasted and steamed, with a bit of that smokey essence that can only come from a BBQ grill. Delightful!
What goes in the foil packets?
My packets only include rinsed broccoli, a little olive oil, salt and pepper, and butter.
If you would like to play with different flavors for your grilled broccoli, here are some suggestions:
- Crushed red pepper – for a little bit of spice
- A squeeze of lemon juice – a little citrus for brightness
- Parmesan cheese – because cheese makes everything better!
If you’ve never tried grilled broccoli in foil packets, you’ll want to do it right away!
Grilled Broccoli in Foil
Equipment
- Aluminum foil, heavy duty is best
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli cut up (approx. one large crown)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place broccoli pieces in the middle of a large sheet of foil.
- Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli, dot with butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover with a second sheet of foil and seal the edges well.
- Place on a preheated grill, directly on the grill grates. Close grill cover and cook 5 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Open foil packet carefully (watch for hot steam!). Broccoli will be ready to serve.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
OMGGGG! Just reading about the broccoli from the grill makes my mouth water. I can’t WAIT to try these! And the red pepper flakes and lemon? Ehrrrrmehhhrrghherrrd!!!
So good!
A simple and delicious side dish – we love broccoli, and this is a great way to prepare it.
It’s my new favorite!
I tried this with the suggested parmesean cheese and it was a hit! Anything my child will eat is now on the list of things to make regularly. Thanks for the great broccoli recipe.
Always a win when you can find something acceptable to the kids!
What a great idea to put in foil to get that steamed and grilled finish! I’m going to try this!
I know you’ll love it!
What a great idea, can’t wait to try your recipe.
It makes perfect broccoli!
Grilled broccoli in foil looks not only delicious but also easy to make it
Yes, I love it!
I can’t wait to try this delicious Grilled Broccoli in Foil!
I hope you try it soon! It’s delicious!
My kids love broccoli so I’m always looking for new ways to cook it. Great recipe!
Its always best when a recipe is kid friendly!
Love this healthy side dish ~ we don’t have a grill at the moment but we made it in the oven and the kids RAVED!
Yum – delish!
I love grilling almost anything in foil. Veggies are one of my favorites. This looks so good.
There’s something so fun about food cooked in foil, isn’t there?
I love love how easy this recipe is. I made it and it was so tasty – such a great addition to our dinner! I love that there’s very little cleanup, too!
Yes the “crumble up and throw away” part of clean up is a winner for me too! I’m glad you enjoyed it, thanks for letting me know.
I have been looking for a new way to cook broccoli! I grill all the time so this looks perfect for me. Can’t wait to ty it, YUM!
Oh if you like broccoli at ALL you will LOVE this!
I love grilled broccoli, it seems to concentrate the flavor. Thanks for the recipe and instructions on how to cook broccoli in foil!
Yes I think it concentrates the flavor as well. And adds that smokey essence – so good!
So quick, easy, and flavourful!
Yes, we love it!