Charred Broccolini

If you're looking for a simple side dish that's still big on flavor, this Charred Broccolini checks every box. It's crisp-tender with beautifully blistered edges, tossed with red pepper flakes, toasted garlic, and a squeeze of caramelized lemon. It comes together quickly in one pan and pairs effortlessly with everything from roasted meats to pasta or grain bowls.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword charred, broccolini, toasted garlic, caramelized, lemon, sauteed

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings servings

Calories 45

Author Kristen-The Epicurean Mouse

Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
3 large peeled garlic cloves thinly sliced
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
2 bunches broccolini washed and ends trimmed
1 tsp lemon zest
caramelized lemon halves for serving
flaky sea salt to sprinkle on top before serving

Instructions

Start by adding olive oil to a large skillet and warming it over low heat. You want the oil warm, but not sizzling. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced garlic. Let it cook low and slow, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden and fragrant. Then, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the toasted garlic and set aside for later.
Next, stir in the red pepper flakes and let it sizzle in the garlic-infused oil for about 30 seconds. Turn up the heat to medium-high, then add the broccolini in a single layer. If you're making a bigger batch, work in batches so you don't overcrowd the pan. Let the broccolini sit undisturbed for a few minutes to get that deep char, then flip and cook until tender and evenly crisped on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
Once the broccolini is cooked, turn off the heat and toss it with the toasted garlic and fresh lemon zest. Give it a quick stir to bring all the flavors together.
Transfer the broccolini to a serving platter, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and finish with caramelized lemon halves on the side.

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