Charred Broccolini with Lemon Garlic Butter and Toasted Hazelnuts - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Charred Broccolini with Lemon Garlic Butter and Toasted Hazelnuts

Get ready to elevate your veggie game! This charred broccolini is smoky, zesty, and oh-so-delicious with a drizzle of lemon garlic butter and a crunchy hazelnut topping. It's a quick, elegant dish that'll make your taste buds dance. Who knew greens could be this exciting?

4.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

Get ready to turn your vegetable side dish into the star of the show with this Charred Broccolini with Lemon Garlic Butter and Toasted Hazelnuts! I mean, broccoli’s cool and all, but broccolini? It’s like broccoli’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin who just came back from a fancy European vacation. There’s something magical about giving these tender stalks a good char on a hot pan – smoky, crispy edges meet that fresh green crunch, like a little tango on your taste buds. Add a drizzle of rich lemon garlic butter and a sprinkling of buttery hazelnuts, and suddenly you’ve got a dish that isn’t just a side—it’s a full-on main character moment.

Charred Broccolini with Lemon Garlic Butter and Toasted Hazelnuts Recipe

What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. The char brings an irresistible smokiness, while the lemon garlic butter adds a zingy, aromatic richness. And oh, let’s pause to appreciate the hazelnuts. Toasted to perfection, they provide a nutty crunch that takes everything to the next level. Even better, this dish is deceptively simple. It’s a quick char on the broccolini, a stir of melted butter with garlic and lemon juice, and a light toss of hazelnuts. But don’t let that simplicity fool you—the result feels restaurant-worthy. The hazelnuts, by the way, are the unsung hero here. They're not just for desserts, people! Their buttery, slightly sweet profile pairs beautifully with the fresh, tangy richness of this dish.

Now it’s your turn to give this recipe a go! Serve it as an elegant side at your next dinner party, or make it the centerpiece of a light, veggie-forward meal. You could even switch things up with almonds or pine nuts if hazelnuts aren’t on hand—though I highly recommend sticking with the hazelnuts for that signature crunch. Feeling fancy? Grate a little Parmesan on top for a savory twist. Whether you pair it with roasted chicken, a creamy risotto, or enjoy it solo, this charred broccolini is guaranteed to wow. Just don’t be surprised when your guests ask for the recipe, and you realize you’ll never look at plain, steamed broccoli the same way again.

Keywords: charred broccolini recipe, lemon garlic butter sauce for vegetables, toasted hazelnut vegetable dish, smoky vegetable side dish, elegant broccolini recipe ideas, crunchy hazelnut broccolini, unique vegetable recipes

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Modern American

Ingredients

  • 1 pound broccolini, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Wash and trim the broccolini by cutting off any tough ends, then pat dry with a clean towel to ensure a good char.

  2. 2

    Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.

  3. 3

    Once the oil is hot, add the broccolini in a single layer, seasoning it with salt and black pepper.

  4. 4

    Cook the broccolini for 3-4 minutes per side, allowing it to char slightly without overcooking, then remove it from the pan and set aside.

  5. 5

    Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same pan, letting it melt completely.

  6. 6

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant, then mix in the lemon zest and juice, stirring well to combine.

  7. 7

    Return the charred broccolini to the pan, tossing it gently with the lemon garlic butter until evenly coated.

  8. 8

    Transfer the broccolini to a serving platter and sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

  9. 9

    Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest or freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

180 calories

Protein

4g

Carbs

10g

Fat

14g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?

A: Yes, you can substitute regular broccoli for broccolini if needed. Cut the broccoli into smaller florets to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that regular broccoli may take slightly longer to cook, so monitor it closely while charring.

Q: What can I use instead of hazelnuts?

A: If you don’t have hazelnuts, you can use other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. For a nut-free option, try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Q: How do I prevent the broccolini from becoming too soft?

A: Make sure the broccolini is completely dry before cooking, as excess moisture can cause it to steam instead of char. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can trap steam and result in softer broccolini. Cook in batches if necessary.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time. Char the broccolini and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in the pan with the lemon garlic butter just before serving, then top with toasted hazelnuts.

Q: What other flavor variations can I try?

A: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon garlic butter for a hint of spice. For a smoky flavor, try sprinkling smoked paprika over the broccolini before serving. You could also add freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for a cheesy twist.

Q: What’s the best way to toast hazelnuts?

A: To toast hazelnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. Watch them closely to prevent burning. After toasting, rub them with a clean kitchen towel to remove the skins if desired.

Q: Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?

A: Yes, you can grill the broccolini instead of using a skillet. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, toss the broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and place directly on the grill grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until charred, then proceed with the recipe as written.

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