10-Minute Lemony Garlic Broccolini
This 10-Minute Lemony Garlic Broccolini is a vibrant and quick side dish, featuring tender-crisp broccolini sautéed with fragrant garlic, a hint of chili flakes, and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It's the perfect versatile accompaniment to any meal.
For 3 servings
Prepare Broccolini: Wash the broccolini thoroughly. Trim about 1 inch off the tough ends of the stalks. If the stalks are very thick, you can slice them lengthwise in half to ensure even cooking.
Blanch Broccolini: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot or a large skillet. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Carefully add the trimmed broccolini and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the broccolini to an ice bath or rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve its vibrant color. Drain well.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Combine and Season: Add the drained broccolini to the skillet with the garlic and chili flakes. Toss gently to coat the broccolini evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broccolini to heat through.
Finish with Lemon: Remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the broccolini. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve: Toss once more and serve immediately as a vibrant and flavorful side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook: Broccolini should be tender-crisp, not mushy. The ice bath step is crucial for stopping the cooking and maintaining its vibrant green color.
- 2Garlic Control: Watch the garlic carefully when sautéing; it can burn quickly. If it starts to brown too fast, reduce the heat.
- 3Adjust Spice: The amount of red pepper flakes can be adjusted to your preference. For a milder dish, omit them entirely. For more heat, add a bit more.
- 4Fresh Lemon: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled juice won't give the same bright, zesty finish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts during the last minute of cooking for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Cheesy FinishCheesy Finish
Toss with a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast just before serving for an umami, cheesy kick.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or basil along with the lemon juice for an extra layer of freshness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Broccolini is an excellent source of Vitamins C and K, essential for immune function and bone health.
Antioxidant Power
Contains powerful antioxidants like sulforaphane, which may help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Digestive Health
High in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. Cut regular broccoli into florets and blanch for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp, before proceeding with the recipe.
