Broccolini is a nutritious green vegetable that makes for a versatile side dish. This easy broccolini recipe showcases how to cook broccolini simply and deliciously, featuring sautéed broccolini with garlic, lemon, and parmesan.
Whether you’re looking for healthy green vegetable sides or a roasted broccolini recipe, this dish is perfect for complementing any meal.
Why Broccolini is a Great Choice
Broccolini, a hybrid of Chinese broccoli and broccoli, offers a unique flavor profile and a vibrant green hue that enhances any plate.
Its tender stalks and delicate florets make it an ideal candidate for quick cooking methods, such as sautéing.
This vegetable is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to healthy green vegetable sides.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather and prepare your ingredients.
Start with fresh broccolini, ensuring it is trimmed and rinsed to remove any dirt.
Having garlic minced and lemon zested will streamline the cooking experience, allowing you to focus on achieving that perfect sautéed broccolini with garlic flavor.
Cooking Techniques for Broccolini
When it comes to how to cook broccolini, sautéing is one of the quickest and most effective methods.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and add the broccolini.
Sauté for just a few minutes until the vibrant green color appears, ensuring it remains tender-crisp for the best texture.
Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Lemon
Once the broccolini is nearly cooked, it’s time to introduce garlic into the mix.
Adding minced garlic will infuse the dish with a fragrant aroma, elevating the overall taste.
After a brief sauté, finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of zest, which will brighten the flavors and complement the broccolini beautifully.
Finishing Touches with Parmesan
To take your sautéed broccolini with garlic to the next level, incorporate grated parmesan cheese.
This addition not only adds a savory depth but also creates a delightful contrast with the freshness of the lemon.
Toss everything together, season with salt and pepper, and your dish is ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
Present your vibrant plate of sautéed broccolini on a rustic wooden table for an inviting look.
Pair it with a slice of lemon and a fork, making it easy for guests to enjoy.
This broccolini side dish complements a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Simple Sautéed Broccolini Recipe

This broccolini side dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, lemon, and parmesan enhances the natural taste of broccolini, making it a delightful addition to any dinner plate. The recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Broccolini: Rinse the broccolini under cold water and trim the ends.
- Sauté the Broccolini: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccolini and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Finish with Lemon and Parmesan: Remove from heat, then add lemon juice, zest, and grated parmesan. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the sautéed broccolini to a serving dish and enjoy as a healthy side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
