Sauteed Broccolini is the ultimate quick and vibrant side dish, ready in just 15 minutes. Its tender stems and crisp florets are kissed with a golden sear, offering a delightful mix of textures. A hint of garlic and a splash of lemon elevate its natural sweetness, creating a flavor that’s both fresh and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this dish brings a pop of green to any plate.
With a prep time of 5 minutes, this recipe is as effortless as it is delicious. The broccolini’s slight bitterness balances beautifully with its caramelized edges, while the bright citrus finish adds a refreshing zing. Light, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, it’s a side that steals the spotlight every time.
What You’ll Need?
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (use a mandoline for even slices)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for more or less heat)
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed, halved lengthwise if thick (about 6 ounces)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (substitute with lime juice if needed)
How to Make It
- Heat the oil: In a large lidded skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes: Toss in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Cook the broccolini: Add the broccolini and salt, tossing to coat. Cook for 2 minutes, tossing occasionally.
- Steam: Add the water, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the broccolini is tender and bright green.
- Finish with lemon: Remove from heat, toss with lemon juice, and season with additional salt if needed.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This sautéed broccolini makes a vibrant side dish for grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a hearty grain bowl. For a complete meal, pair it with quinoa or brown rice and a drizzle of tahini sauce. It’s also a great addition to pasta dishes—toss it with spaghetti, olive oil, and Parmesan for a quick, healthy dinner.
Spice It Up: Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Try adding toasted almonds or pine nuts for a crunchy texture. For a creamier twist, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, swap the lemon juice for a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra heat.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
To save time, prep your ingredients ahead of time—slice the garlic and trim the broccolini the night before. If you’re in a rush, skip the halving step and cook the broccolini whole—it’ll still turn out tender and delicious. For an even faster cook, use a preheated skillet to get the oil hot quickly.
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the broccolini soggy. For a fresh twist, squeeze a little extra lemon juice before serving.
Kitchen Essentials: Equipment Guidance
A large lidded skillet is key for this recipe—it allows the broccolini to steam evenly while retaining its bright green color. If you don’t have a lid, use a baking sheet or foil to cover the skillet. A sharp knife or mandoline slicer will make quick work of the garlic, ensuring thin, even slices.
Sauteed Broccolini
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 bunch broccolini trimmed, halved lengthwise if thick (about 6 ounces)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large lidded skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds, then add the broccolini and salt and toss.
- Cook, tossing occasionally, for 2 minutes. Add the water, cover, reduce the heat, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing occasionally, or until tender and bright green.
- Remove from the heat, toss with the lemon juice, and season to taste.