makes about 4 cups
1 1/2 pounds broccoli
pepper, salt, butter (for serving)
1. Rinse the broccoli in cold water and shake to remove excess moisture. Cut the broccoli crowns from the stems, then cut the broccoli florets into bite-size pieces.
2. Place about an inch of water in a large sauce pan with a steamer basket in place (the water should remain below the basket). Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the broccoli in a single layer to the basket (I steamed my broccoli in 3 batches). Cover the pan, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer for 7 minutes, or until the broccoli is fork-tender and bright green. Remove the broccoli from the steamer and place in a serving dish.
4. Season with salt and/or pepper and top with butter, if desired. Serve immediately.