If you want a vegetable side that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and deliciously simple to prepare, this Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender, slightly charred broccolini combined with the bright zest of fresh lemon juice creates a harmony of textures and tastes that’s irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday side or a stunning addition to a dinner party, this recipe delivers freshness and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the best out of broccolini is all about using a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that complement each other wonderfully. Each component plays a crucial role: from the smooth olive oil that ensures a perfect roast, to the flaky sea salt that brings out bold flavors, every ingredient is essential for that beautifully balanced dish.
- 2 bunches broccolini: The star of the dish, tender and slightly sweet, perfect for roasting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the broccolini to promote caramelization and keep it moist.
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt: Adds a satisfying crunch and enhances natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings a bright, zesty finish that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is necessary for achieving that perfect roasting effect — tender stems and nicely crisped tops that you’ll love biting into.
Step 2: Season the Broccolini
Next, toss your broccolini in a bowl with the olive oil, flaky sea salt, and ground black pepper. Make sure every stalk is well coated so the seasoning seeps in during roasting, creating a deeply flavorful bite.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned broccolini out evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps with even cooking and easy cleanup. Roast for about 15 minutes, checking that the stems have softened but still retain a slight bite, and look out for those gorgeous crispy tips that make this dish special.
How to Serve Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, drizzle the broccolini with freshly squeezed lemon juice, which brings fresh brightness and balances the rich roasted flavors beautifully. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some toasted almonds or parmesan shavings on top — these add wonderful texture and a savory punch.
Side Dishes
This Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe pairs wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a hearty quinoa salad. Its light, zesty notes are the perfect foil for richer mains and can brighten up any plate effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, arrange the roasted broccolini neatly on a large platter and garnish with thin lemon slices or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some chili flakes for a hint of heat or drizzle with a garlic-infused olive oil for extra aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover roasted broccolini in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To keep the crispy texture, avoid adding lemon juice until reheating or serving.
Freezing
While roasting preserves the wonderful flavors, freezing broccolini is not the best option as it tends to lose its texture and can become mushy when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Reheating
When reheating, use a hot oven or skillet rather than a microwave to revive that lovely crispness. A quick 5-7 minute roast at 375 degrees Fahrenheit refreshes the broccolini without making it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?
Absolutely! While broccolini has a milder, sweeter flavor and thinner stems, regular broccoli can be roasted with the same method. Just keep in mind that broccoli florets might need a slightly longer cooking time to become tender.
Is it necessary to use flaky sea salt?
Flaky sea salt adds a nice crunch and melts slower, giving bursts of salty flavor in each bite. If you don’t have it, regular kosher salt works fine, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid oversalting.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Definitely! Tossing in minced garlic or garlic powder before roasting adds a wonderful aromatic depth. Just be careful to not burn it by adding garlic later in the cooking process or mixing it with the lemon juice after roasting.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is key for that bright, fresh zing. However, if you’re out, a splash of white wine vinegar or a pinch of lemon zest can also enhance the flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it tends to be less vibrant.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! The Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe uses naturally vegan and gluten-free ingredients, making it a healthy and safe choice for most diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about how simple ingredients come together in this Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy. Its bright flavors and satisfying textures make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple on your table too. So go ahead, roast some broccolini and enjoy a burst of freshness in every forkful!
Print
Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Roasted Broccolini recipe offers a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender stems and crispy tops, seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a perfect healthy side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 bunches broccolini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting the broccolini to tender, crispy perfection.
- Prepare Broccolini: Toss the broccolini evenly with olive oil, flaky sea salt, and ground black pepper, coating each stem thoroughly for balanced flavor.
- Arrange and Roast: Spread the seasoned broccolini in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to promote even roasting without sticking.
- Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the stems are tender and slightly crispy on top, achieving a delightful texture.
- Add Lemon Juice: After roasting, drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the broccolini for a bright, tangy finish that enhances the overall flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the broccolini for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Adjust seasoning to taste by adding more salt or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Can be paired with grilled meats or used as a topping for bowls and salads.
