Print

Crispy Charred Broccolini Recipe with Toasted Almonds and Lemon Zest for Easy Healthy Sides

crispy charred broccolini - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy side dish featuring broccolini charred to perfection with toasted almonds and bright lemon zest, delivering a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) fresh broccolini, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) raw sliced or slivered almonds
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon (3 g) sea salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 g) of broccolini under cold water. Trim the ends about ½ inch (1 cm) from the bottom and pat dry thoroughly.
  2. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1/3 cup (40 g) of sliced almonds and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
  3. Using a microplane, zest 1 medium lemon directly into the bowl with toasted almonds. Toss gently to combine and set aside.
  4. Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil. Once shimmering, add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add the broccolini in a single layer if possible. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to get a good char on one side.
  6. Flip or toss the broccolini with tongs and cook for another 3-4 minutes until stems are tender-crisp and edges are slightly blackened. Cover for 1-2 minutes if needed to help steam through, but avoid overcooking.
  7. Season with ½ teaspoon (3 g) sea salt, ¼ teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper, and optional pinch of red pepper flakes. Toss to combine.
  8. Transfer broccolini to a serving plate and sprinkle the toasted almond and lemon zest mixture evenly on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Dry the broccolini thoroughly before cooking to avoid steaming. Use medium-high heat to achieve a good char without burning. Toast almonds separately to bring out their nutty flavor. Add lemon zest at the end to preserve its bright aroma. For thicker broccolini, blanch briefly before cooking if desired. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispness. Nut-free alternatives include toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccolini, crispy broccolini, toasted almonds, lemon zest, healthy side dish, quick side, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-charred-broccolini-recipe-with-toasted-almonds-and-lemon-zest-for-easy-healthy-sides/