Hey y'all! If you’re searching for a side dish that’s both vibrant and bursting with zesty flavor, Lemon Garlic Broccolini is about to become your new favorite. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gorgeously green, tender-crisp veggie dish that shines at weeknight dinners, holidays, or backyard gatherings. The brightness of fresh lemon and aromatic garlic perfectly complement the delicate broccolini spears—ready in just 15 minutes! Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Bright, fresh flavors from lemon juice and zest really wake up the taste buds.
- Quick and easy—prepped and plated in just 15 minutes.
- Packed with vitamins, fiber, and naturally gluten-free.
- Pairs perfectly with almost any main course, from chicken to salmon to pasta.
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini (about 2 bunches), ends trimmed
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced; about 1 tablespoon juice and ½ teaspoon zest)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Broccolini
- Trim about 1 inch from the ends of the broccolini and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 2: Blanch (Optional for Extra Tender-Crisp Texture)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccolini and cook for 1 ½ - 2 minutes. Quickly transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and pat dry.
Step 3: Sauté the Broccolini
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the broccolini to the pan. Cook, tossing occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until bright green and just tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Add Lemon and Serve
- Remove from heat and toss with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Blanching is optional but helps preserve a vivid green color and extra-tender stems.
- Be sure not to overcook; broccolini should be crisp-tender, not limp.
- Add the lemon juice only at the end to prevent bitterness and keep the flavor bright.
Variations
- Cheesy Broccolini: Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan before serving.
- Nutty Broccolini: Add 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds for crunch.
- Spicy Broccolini: Increase red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon for stronger heat.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Citrus zester or microplane
- Mixing bowls
- Large pot (if blanching)
- Slotted spoon (for blanching)
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover Lemon Garlic Broccolini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Not freezer-friendly, as the texture may become mushy.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve alongside roasted chicken, seared salmon, baked tofu, or creamy risotto.
- Great with grilled steak or a simple pasta primavera.
- Toss leftovers with cooked pasta and extra lemon juice for an easy lunch.
Pro Tips
- Trim the tough ends to ensure even cooking and appealing texture.
- Use a nonstick or stainless steel skillet for best searing and color.
- Add a bit of zest at the end for an extra pop of lemony aroma.
FAQ
- Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?
- Yes! Just cut broccoli florets into smaller bite-sized pieces and cook slightly longer if needed.
- Should I blanch the broccolini, or can I skip that step?
- Blanching is optional, but it helps lock in the vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. Direct sautéing works too!
- Can I make Lemon Garlic Broccolini ahead?
- It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the broccolini and garlic ahead. Reheat gently and add lemon just before serving.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
8-10 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini (about 2 bunches), ends trimmed
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced; about 1 tablespoon juice and ½ teaspoon zest)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
-
1Trim about 1 inch from the ends of the broccolini and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
-
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccolini and cook for 1 ½ - 2 minutes. Quickly transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and pat dry.
-
3Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
-
4Add the broccolini to the pan. Cook, tossing occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until bright green and just tender.
-
5Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
-
6Remove from heat and toss with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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