Anchovies and red-pepper flakes add a spicy twist to this broccoli side dish.

1 head broccoli (1 1/4 pounds), stem trimmed and peeled

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 well-rinsed anchovies (or 2 teaspoons anchovy paste)

1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon red-pepper flakes

Coarse salt and ground pepper

Starting with flower end of broccoli, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add anchovies and red-pepper flakes. Cook, mashing anchovies with a wooden spoon, about 1 minute.
Raise heat to medium. Add broccoli; season with salt and ground pepper. Cook, stirring often, until broccoli is crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup water. Simmer, covered, until broccoli is tender, 4 to 5 minutes more.