Revitalize Leftovers with Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

After a busy weekend filled with takeout and fast food, I found myself yearning for something fresh and vibrant. That s when the idea of a Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli salad sparked in my mind. Picture this: tender, bright green broccoli tossed in a rich, savory-sweet dressing that makes each bite a delightful burst of flavor. This simple recipe not only breathes new life into leftover steamed broccoli but also transforms it into a stunning side dish or light meal.

I love how this salad strikes the perfect balance between a crunchy texture and a creamy finish, thanks to the wonderful combination of sesame oil and tangy Dijon mustard. Whether you re prepping for a family dinner or a casual lunch, this easy-to-make dish caters to various dietary needs it s dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Let s dive into this refreshing recipe that proves healthy eating doesn t have to be complicated!

Why is Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli a Must-Try?

Freshness and zest: This salad rejuvenates leftover steamed broccoli, turning it into a vibrant dish that s anything but boring.
Quick and easy: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious side that ll impress guests and family alike.
Nutritious delight: Packed with fiber and vitamins, it s as good for your health as it is for your taste buds.
Adaptable recipe: Customize it with your favorite veggies or extra spices to match your family s preferences.
Perfect for meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches!

Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli Ingredients

For the Salad

• Broccoli (2 medium heads) The star of the dish, packed with fiber and nutrients, use both stalks and florets for varied texture.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp) Adds crunch and visual appeal to your Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli.

For the Dressing

• Olive Oil ( ¼ cup) Provides richness and healthy fats, essential for a satisfying salad.
• Sesame Oil (1 tsp) Infuses a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Garlic (1 clove, crushed) Offers aromatic depth to your dressing, a must-have for flavor.
• Rice Vinegar (1 ½ tablespoons) Provides necessary acidity; substitute with apple cider vinegar if preferred.
• Tamari (1 tbsp) A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that adds a savory umami kick.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) Deepens the dressing s complexity and ties the flavors together.
• Honey (1 tsp, optional) Adds a touch of sweetness; feel free to omit for a sugar-free version.
• Chili Flakes ( ½ tsp) Optional, for those who love a hint of heat in their salad!

Take your leftovers from ho-hum to fabulous with this Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli salad!

How to Make Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, sesame oil, crushed garlic, rice vinegar, tamari, Dijon mustard, and honey. Whisk or shake until well mixed and smooth, creating a flavorful dressing base.

2. Toss the Broccoli: In a larger bowl, add the leftover steamed broccoli. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the broccoli and gently toss until every piece is well coated in that luscious sesame dressing.

3. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds and optional chili flakes over the salad for added crunch and a bit of heat. This salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it versatile for any meal.

Optional: Try adding sliced scallions for an extra flavorful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli salads are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its robust flavors. The leftover steamed broccoli can also be tossed with the dressing up to 24 hours ahead of serving, but be sure to add the sesame seeds just before serving to keep their crunch. If you want to enjoy the vibrant freshness of this salad, simply refrigerate the prepped salad and allow it to come to room temperature before serving, ensuring that it stays just as delicious as when freshly made. With these steps, you ll have a refreshing, convenient side ready to accompany any meal with minimal effort!

Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli Variations

Customize your Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli with these delightful twists that will elevate your meal!

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a heartier dish and increase the protein content in every bite.
• Vegetable Swap: Replace broccoli with colorful bell peppers or zucchini for a different texture and a burst of color.
• Grain-Inclusive: Serve over quinoa or brown rice to make it a complete meal that s satisfying and nutritious.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to add a fragrant twist and brighten the flavors.
• Nutty Crunch: Almonds or sunflower seeds would give an unexpected crunch, elevating the salad experience.

With these tweaks, each homemade version brings its distinctive flair. Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the fresh flavors of this vibrant salad.

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the savory dressing, providing a satisfying protein that balances the lightness of the salad.

• Quinoa: This nutty, fluffy grain adds a great texture contrast and complements the salad s robust flavors, making it a wholesome meal.

• Crispy Tofu: Perfect for a vegan option, the crispy exterior and soft interior of tofu mirror the crunchy elements in your salad.

• Brown Rice: A simple whole grain that brings a hearty base to your meal while allowing the sesame flavors to shine through.

• Sautéed Garlic Green Beans: These vibrant veggies with a touch of garlic add another layer of flavor while remaining fresh and vibrant in color.

• Lemon-Herb Grilled Shrimp: The citrus notes enhance the salad s dressing, creating a bright, flavorful combination that s perfect for a summer dinner.

• Coconut Curry Soup: A warm, fragrant bowl beautifully contrasts the refreshing salad and provides a delightful fusion of flavors on your plate.

• Chilled Sake or Green Tea: These drinks are refreshing accompaniments that cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience.

Expert Tips for Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli

• Broccoli Perfection: Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep its bright green color and crunchy texture; 7-8 minutes of steaming is ideal.

• Custom Crunch: Feel free to toss in your favorite nuts or seeds. Just ensure they re roasted for an extra layer of flavor and crunch!

• Flavor Balance: Taste the dressing before tossing it with the broccoli. Adjust sweetness or acidity as needed to achieve the perfect balance in your Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli.

• Storage Savvy: For best results, consume this salad within three days. It s still delicious cold, but freshness shines when enjoyed right after preparation.

• Hearty Pairings: To make it a complete meal, consider pairing your salad with grilled chicken or tofu for additional protein.

How to Store and Freeze Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli

• Fridge: Store any leftover Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor.
• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of broccoli may become mushy after thawing. It s best enjoyed fresh!
• Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy it warm, gently reheat in a microwave or skillet until just warmed through, avoiding overcooking and softening the broccoli further.
• Serving: This salad is versatile and can be served cold or warm; however, it s at its best on the day it s made!

Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best broccoli for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for fresh broccoli heads that are vibrant green and firm to the touch. Avoid any stalks with dark spots or wilting leaves, as these indicate that the broccoli may be past its prime. If you re using leftover steamed broccoli, ensure it hasn t been sitting for too long and maintain that crispy bite for the best texture.

How should I store leftover Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli?
To maintain its freshness, store any leftover Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It s perfect for those quick snacks or easy lunches later in the week. Just keep in mind, this salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it s still delicious cold!

Can I freeze Sesame Dressed Steamed Broccoli?
I recommend against freezing this salad. Broccoli has a tendency to become mushy once thawed, which can alter the crunchy texture that makes this dish so delightful. Enjoy it fresh instead to savor all its vibrant flavors!

What should I do if the dressing is too tangy or too sweet?
No worries! If you find your dressing leaning too tangy, you can add a dash more honey to balance the acidity. Conversely, if it s too sweet, just a splash more rice vinegar or tamari can help bring it back into balance. It s all about tasting as you go; make those adjustments to suit your palate.

Can my pets eat broccoli from this salad?
Yes! Most pets can enjoy broccoli in moderation as a healthy treat. Just avoid giving them any pieces that contain the dressing, especially the garlic and honey, which might not be suitable for them. Stick with plain, lightly steamed broccoli, as it s packed with beneficial nutrients without any of the added flavors.