21 vegetarian ways to make broccoli work for both of you

Pair it with something that brings protein or staying power, such as beans, tofu, cheese, pasta, potatoes or whole grains. Roasting or baking gives broccoli firmer edges and a deeper flavour, while steaming keeps it tender and fresh in salads or bowls. For two people, cook enough broccoli to divide between the main dish and a leftover lunch, rather than treating it as a small side that needs another meal built around it.

Baked potatoes, pasta, quesadillas and mashed potato bowls are easy to portion separately without making separate dinners. One person can take more of the filling or add another serving of beans, tofu, cheese or vegetables, while the base stays the same. Salads and wraps are also flexible, but keep dressing and wet fillings separate if one of you prefers a crisper meal.

Change the texture and setting rather than buying a completely different set of ingredients each night. Use broccoli in a crisp salad or wrap first, then in a baked potato, pasta dish, pizza or quesadilla, and finish with a tofu or vegetable bowl. Cook a batch of broccoli with only a little seasoning, then add herb dressing, cheese, vinaigrette or other toppings at serving so the leftovers do not taste identical.