Charred Broccolini

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Charred Broccolini

Charred Broccolini is a delightful vegetable dish that deserves a spot on your dinner table. It’s a quick, easy-to-follow recipe that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. This delicious twist on traditional roasted vegetables not only brings a lovely char to the tender stalks but also infuses them with the aromatic essence of garlic and the brightness of lemon. Are you ready to explore this vibrant, flavorful dish? Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Charred Broccolini recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their vegetable game. Not only is it incredibly simple to prepare, but it also boasts a wealth of health benefits. Broccolini, a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, is rich in vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

The ease of this dish means it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive enough for entertaining guests. You can whip it up in under 15 minutes, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Plus, the vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors will make this healthy side dish a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh broccolini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
• Salt, to taste
• Juice of 1 fresh lemon
• Red pepper flakes (optional), a pinch

This Charred Broccolini recipe is bursting with flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The crispy char from the high heat contrasts beautifully with the tender crunch of the broccolini, while the garlic adds a savory depth and the lemon juice brings a refreshing brightness. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds an optional kick.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Rinse the broccolini: Start by rinsing the fresh broccolini under cold water. Pat it dry with a clean towel and trim the ends if they appear tough. This ensures that you’re working with the freshest vegetable.

2. Heat olive oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. This will help create that beautiful char on the broccolini.

3. Cook the broccolini: Once the oil is shimmering, add the broccolini in a single layer. Sear the broccolini undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to allow it to develop that delicious char. Turn occasionally for about 6-8 minutes total until it’s tender and crisp.

4. Add garlic and salt: Next, add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Stir for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is wonderfully fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.

5. Finish with lemon: Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon over the broccolini, tossing it to ensure an even coat. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes. Serve immediately, and enjoy your vibrant dish!

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky twist, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the broccolini while cooking.
• To make it a complete meal, consider pairing the charred broccolini with grilled chicken or fish.
• If you find broccolini, garlic, and lemon to be a fantastic combo, feel free to play with these flavors! Adding nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts can also create an excellent texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Charred Broccolini is more versatile than you might think! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, fish, and steak. You can also serve it alongside pasta dishes, grain bowls, or atop a fresh salad for a crunchy element. For a hearty vegetarian meal, try it with quinoa or rice.

Nutritional Information

Broccolini is low in calories but high in vital nutrients. One serving (approximately 1 cup cooked) contains around:

• Calories: 55
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 2g
• Iron: 1mg
• Vitamin C: 150% of the Daily Value (DV)

These nutrient-rich components make Charred Broccolini a generous addition to your diet.

Storing Tips & Variations

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. This dish can also be reheated in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. If you want to get creative, you can experiment with different flavors by adding soy sauce or balsamic vinegar during cooking. You can also toss it with your favorite herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Charred Broccolini is not only a quick and easy recipe, but it also brings a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow this straightforward recipe, and enjoy the crunchy, savory goodness of Charred Broccolini today!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?
   Yes, regular broccoli can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it may require slightly longer to become tender.

2. Is broccolini the same as Chinese broccoli?
   Broccolini is a hybrid between broccoli and Chinese broccoli, and while they may look similar, their flavor profiles and textures differ slightly.

3. Can I use frozen broccolini?
   While fresh broccolini is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen broccolini if it’s what you have on hand. Just ensure to thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.

4. What is the best way to chop broccolini?
   You can chop broccolini into smaller pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Make sure to trim any tough ends.

5. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare and cook broccolini ahead of time, then reheat it before serving. However, for the best texture, it’s usually best enjoyed fresh.

Charred Broccolini

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A quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender, charred broccolini enhanced with garlic and lemon.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bunch fresh broccolini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
• Salt, to taste
• Juice of 1 fresh lemon
• Red pepper flakes (optional), a pinch

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Instructions

1. Rinse the broccolini under cold water, pat it dry, and trim the ends if tough.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the broccolini in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then turn occasionally for another 6-8 minutes until tender and crisp.
4. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the broccolini, tossing to coat. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or pairing with grilled chicken or fish.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 55
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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