Zesty Lemon Broccolini: A Quick & Flavorful Side Dish

Quick and flavorful, this Lemon Broccolini recipe features garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice for a healthy side that’s ready in 15 minutes. Perfect with fish, chicken, or pasta.

When it comes to easy, healthy, and flavor-packed sides, Lemon Broccolini might just be the unsung hero of your dinner table. With its slightly bitter, earthy crunch balanced by zippy lemon, garlic, and a touch of olive oil, this dish comes together in under 15 minutes—and pairs beautifully with everything from grilled fish to pasta or roast chicken. Whether you're planning a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, this elegant green veggie is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love Lemon Broccolini

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, no complicated steps involved.

• Vibrant & Fresh: Lemon and garlic elevate the broccolini with bright, fresh flavors.

• Healthy: Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

• Versatile: Serve alongside meats, pasta, grain bowls, or enjoy as a light vegetarian dish.

• Elegant: A visually striking side that looks fancy but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients Breakdown & Why They Work

1 lb Broccolini (ends trimmed)

Broccolini is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli (gai lan), offering long, tender stalks and small florets. It cooks quickly, has a mild flavor, and looks beautiful on a plate. Trimming the ends removes any woody texture and helps it cook evenly.

1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A light coating of high-quality olive oil helps broccolini sauté and brown in the pan, adding richness and enhancing flavor.

Kosher Salt & Black Pepper

A simple seasoning duo that lets the natural flavors shine. Kosher salt is preferred for its clean, consistent salting.

2 Garlic Cloves, Minced

Garlic adds deep aroma and savory contrast to the brightness of the lemon.

Juice of 1 Lemon

The acidity of fresh lemon juice lifts the entire dish and balances the earthiness of the broccolini.

2 Tablespoons Water

A splash of water helps steam the broccolini after sautéing, ensuring it's tender without overcooking.

Optional Garnishes: Lemon Slices, Finishing Salt Flakes

Thin lemon slices add a decorative and flavor boost, while finishing salt like Maldon adds texture and a gourmet touch.

How to Make Lemon Broccolini

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Broccolini
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed broccolini, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes. Stir or toss frequently until it starts to turn bright green and lightly charred.

Step 2: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Pour in the juice of 1 lemon and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the pan (these add flavor!).

Step 4: Steam to Finish
Add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet and immediately cover with a lid. Let it steam for 1 minute, until the broccolini is fork-tender but still bright green.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with thin lemon slices and finishing salt flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Broccolini should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Keep the steaming time short.

• Use Fresh Lemon: Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant zing of fresh citrus.

• Trim the Ends: Even a quarter inch makes a big difference in texture.

• High Heat Searing: Medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that light char without overcooking.

• Add Parmesan or Chili Flakes: Want extra flair? Add shaved parmesan or a pinch of red chili flakes.

What to Serve With Lemon Broccolini

• Grilled salmon or shrimp

• Lemon garlic pasta

• Roasted chicken or turkey

• Quinoa or couscous bowls

• Creamy polenta or mashed potatoes

This Lemon Broccolini is ideal for anyone looking to add a touch of green and freshness to their meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s fancy enough for guests but simple enough for weeknight dinners. The combination of crisp-tender broccolini with savory garlic and bright lemon creates a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s low-calorie, nutrient-rich, and comes together in one skillet—what’s not to love?

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.

• Avoid Freezing: The texture doesn’t hold up well once frozen and thawed.

Yield: 4

Author: CookSnapBake.com

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Zesty Lemon Broccolini

Quick and flavorful, this Lemon Broccolini recipe features garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice for a healthy side that’s ready in 15 minutes. Perfect with fish, chicken, or pasta.

Cook time: 15 MinTotal time: 15 Min

Ingredients

• 1 lb broccolini, ends trimmed
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons water
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: lemon slices, finishing salt flakes

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add broccolini, season with salt and pepper, and sauté 5 minutes, stirring often.
3. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Add water, cover, and steam 1 minute until fork tender.
6. Garnish and serve immediately.

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