Roasted Broccolini

When I think of vibrant greens, the first thing that comes to mind is the beautifully roasted broccolini. There’s something magical about those tender little stalks, kissed by the heat of the oven until they’re crisp-tender and bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made Roasted Broccolini for a dinner party. The fresh aroma wafting through the kitchen was simply irresistible, drawing my friends in to see what was cooking. As I pulled the pan from the oven, the golden edges and slight char made them look utterly perfect. Everyone was intrigued and couldn’t wait to dig in. As the first forkful of Roasted Broccolini met their taste buds, it was clear that this dish was a hit. Their surprised smiles and nods of approval encouraged me to keep it in my recipe rotation. It’s not just a side dish; it’s an experience that brings people together, enhancing any meal with its delightful taste and texture.

Roasted Broccolini Ingredients

Choosing the right ingredients is essential for creating an exceptional dish. For Roasted Broccolini, fresh produce takes center stage. The combination of each ingredient brings out the natural flavors of the broccolini while adding depth and richness to the overall dish. The key players here are the broccolini itself, along with a drizzle of olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Together, they create a delightful medley of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.

• 2 medium bunches broccolini (baby broccoli), just shy of 1 pound: This tender green vegetable is the star of the dish, known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture.
• 2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and helps achieve that crispy exterior.
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled: Adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the broccolini.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus additional for serving: This essential seasoning elevates the taste of your dish.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A little bit of heat and spice to balance the flavors.
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan: Optional, for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
• Pinch red pepper flakes: A touch of heat for those who enjoy a little kick.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty finish.

Step by Step Guide for Roasted Broccolini

Cooking Roasted Broccolini is a straightforward process that even beginner cooks can master. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a beautifully roasted side dish in no time. The key is to keep an eye on your broccolini as it cooks, ensuring it reaches that perfect point of tenderness while developing a lovely char.

1. Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 425 degrees F. This high temperature is essential for achieving that delightful crisp.
2. Coat a large rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. This will make clean-up a breeze!
3. Trim off the end of the broccolini stems. If your broccoli stalks are thick, cut them in half lengthwise so that they cook evenly.
4. Place the broccolini in the center of the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out to ensure even roasting.
5. Place the garlic on top of the broccolini. Don’t worry if the pieces are scattered; they’ll infuse their flavor during roasting.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the broccolini and sprinkle with salt and pepper. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them now for extra heat.
7. Toss the broccolini thoroughly to coat it with the olive oil. Make sure all of the tips of the florets are nicely coated to prevent burning.
8. Arrange the broccolini in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring that cut sides are touching the pan for optimal roasting.
9. If you’re adding Parmesan, sprinkle it over the top now, allowing it to melt and become deliciously golden.
10. Roast the broccolini for 10 to 15 minutes until it is crisp-tender and beginning to char. Halfway through, rotate the pan 180 degrees for even cooking.
11. Once it’s done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Cooking is a creative process, and I love sharing tips to help you customize your Roasted Broccolini. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish even further:

• Storage: Refrigerate broccolini in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days. This helps retain its freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze broccolini in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve Roasted Broccolini with grilled chicken or fish for a delicious and balanced meal.
• Garnish Options: Add toasted nuts, like pine nuts or almonds, for an added crunch and rich flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.

Perfect Matches for Roasted Broccolini

When it comes to serving Roasted Broccolini, the options are plentiful. Here are some suggestions to help you create a complete meal:

• Grilled Lemon Chicken: The bright citrus flavor complements the earthy tones of the broccolini.
• Pasta Dishes: Pair it with creamy pasta for a satisfying meal that balances the greens.
• Quinoa Salad: Toss Roasted Broccolini into a salad with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and feta for a nutritious lunch.
• Steak: The charred flavors of a grilled steak harmonize perfectly with the roasted greens.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dish is fantastic for summer barbecues or even as part of a holiday feast.
• Picnic Friendly: Roasted Broccolini can be served cold, making it great for outdoor gatherings.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Roasted Broccolini lies in its simplicity and flavor. It’s a perfect side dish that complements a variety of meals, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner table. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot—you won’t be disappointed!

Roasted Broccolini

Craving something vibrant and delicious? Roasted Broccolini is your answer! With its tender stalks and crispy edges, it’s a perfect side for any meal. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, you'll want to make this dish tonight.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 70

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 medium bunches broccolini (baby broccoli), just shy of 1 pound
• 2.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus additional as needed (do not skimp or it may burn!)
• 3 cloves garlic smashed and peeled
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt plus additional for serving
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Grater
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Coat a large rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Trim off the end of the broccolini stems. If your broccoli stalks are thick, cut them in half lengthwise. You want all of the broccolini pieces to be roughly the same diameter.
4. Place the broccolini in the center of the prepared baking sheet.
5. Place the garlic on top of the broccolini. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper (if using red pepper flakes, add them here).
6. Toss to very thoroughly coat the broccolini with the olive oil and distribute the garlic evenly.
7. Make sure all of the tips of the florets are nicely coated with oil to help protect them from burning. If any seem dry, drizzle on a little extra oil as needed.
8. Arrange the broccolini in a single layer. Flip any cuts sides so that the cut part of the stem is touching the pan. (If you are adding Parmesan, sprinkle it over the top.)
9. Roast the broccolini for 10 to 15 minutes, until it is crisp-tender and beginning to char. Halfway through the baking time, rotate the pan 180 degrees. No need to turn the broccolini over.
10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with a pinch of additional salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: Refrigerate broccolini in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
• Tip 2: Gently rewarm leftovers on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F.
• Tip 3: Freeze broccolini in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.