Ingredients
- 1 bunch broccolini8 ounces
- 2-4 cloves garlicthinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- a pinch oregano
- 1/2 of whole lemon lemon juice
- to taste salt
- to taste fresh cracked pepper
- optional (to taste) chili flakes
This Roasted Garlic Broccolini recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that makes broccolini crunchy, salty, sweet, and sour all at the same time. The combination of sweet roasted garlic, a hint of honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and aromatic oregano creates a dish that is both quick and indulgent.
The natural sweetness of broccolini is enhanced through quickly tossing at high temperature, and gives a tender texture with lightly crisped edges, while the garlic infuses every bite with a deep, savory aroma. This side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or as a standout side for entertaining your guests.
Recipe Video
Watch the full cooking process:
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Recipe steps
Step 1. Prep the broccolini1 minute Rinse the broccolini thoroughly under cold water. Trim the ends of the stalks so they are even in length, ensuring they cook evenly. Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel. |
Step 2. Cook the garlic1 minute Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the broccolini to the skillet. Chop garlic on a board. |
Step 3. Add the broccolini2 minutes Sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, then add the garlic and cook until it is lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic tastes bitter. Toss broccolini well so that each stalk is coated in the garlic-infused oil. |
Step 4. Season, cook, add lemon juice4 minutes Sprinkle a pinch of oregano, salt, and freshly cracked pepper over the broccolini. If you like spicy kick, add chili flakes at this stage. Drizzle the tablespoon of honey over the broccolini and continue to sauté for 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally, until the broccolini is tender but still slightly crisp. |
Step 5. Serve1 minute Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the broccolini. Toss well to combine, making sure the citrus brightens the flavor evenly. Transfer the roasted garlic broccolini to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top. Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy! |
Which season is this recipe best for?
Broccolini (or broccoli) is available year-round in most grocery stores. I love broccolini because they have sweet and delicate flavor, which pairs beautifully with the caramelized notes of roasted garlic.
Fresh, in-season broccolini also cooks more evenly, ensuring that your roasted garlic broccolini will have the perfect balance of tenderness and slight crispness without any bitterness.
Where can I buy the ingredients for this recipe?
Broccolini can be found at most well-stocked supermarkets, farmers’ markets, and specialty grocery stores. Look for firm stalks, vibrant green color, and unopened florets.
Garlic, olive oil, honey, oregano, lemons, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes are standard pantry staples available in most grocery stores.
For the freshest garlic, visit local farmers’ markets where bulbs are often sold in bulk.
Extra virgin olive oil and raw or local honey can elevate the dish, so consider purchasing them from specialty shops or organic markets.
Organic lemons provide the best flavor for juicing, and fresh oregano can be found in potted herb sections or the produce aisle.
When buying ingredients, always prioritize freshness, quality, and seasonality to ensure the final dish is flavorful and aromatic.
Can I substitute the ingredients in this recipe?
You can make several substitutions if needed. If broccolini is unavailable, tender broccoli florets can be used, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic can be swapped with shallots or garlic powder in a pinch, though fresh garlic delivers the best roasted flavor.
Honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar, providing a similar touch of sweetness.
Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice for a slightly different citrus profile, and dried oregano can be replaced with thyme or rosemary, which also complement roasted vegetables well.
If you prefer heat, you can adjust chili flakes or substitute with a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
Can I make this recipe part of a menu?
Absolutely. Roasted garlic broccolini is versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of menus.
It works beautifully as a side dish for Mediterranean Veal Cutlets, Steak with Fried Egg.
If you want to serve broccolini with fish, you can try my Mediterranean Baked Trout, or Pan-Fried Sea Bream. It also pairs well with grain-based dishes, such as quinoa salads, risottos, or pasta.
For dessert, options like Panna Cotta with Strawberry Compote, Cherry Pavlova, or fresh berries with cheese create a refreshing and satisfying dessert.
On a holiday menu, roasted garlic broccolini adds elegance and color, offering a balance to richer dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or turkey Parmesan.
Which drinks would you pair it with?
The bright, slightly sweet, and garlicky flavors of roasted garlic broccolini pair well with a variety of drinks.
For wine, crisp Portuguese whites such as Vinho Verde, Arinto, or Encruzado complement the dish beautifully, enhancing citrus and honey notes without overpowering the vegetables.
If serving with roasted meats, light-bodied Portuguese reds like Baga, Tinta Roriz, or Touriga Nacional work well, adding subtle fruit and floral aromas that enhance the flavors without dominating them.
Non-alcoholic pairings include sparkling water with a slice of lemon, iced herbal teas, or lightly sweetened citrus drinks. The key is to choose beverages that balance the natural sweetness and slight bitterness of the broccolini while enhancing the roasted garlic and honey flavors.
How long can I store this recipe leftovers?
Leftover roasted garlic broccolini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To preserve texture and flavor, allow the broccolini to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to prevent sogginess and maintain the slightly crisp edges.
Avoid reheating in the microwave for extended periods, as it can make the broccolini less flavorful.
If storing longer, consider freezing, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Recipe tips & tricks
Here are my tips on how to make this recipe perfect:
- Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even roasting.
- Trim the broccolini stalks so they cook evenly.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and optional chili flakes for a subtle kick.
- For added depth, drizzle a little extra olive oil after cooking and serve immediately.
- Experiment with ingredient ratios to suit your taste, but keep the honey and lemon balanced to enhance the natural flavor of the broccolini.
My roasted garlic broccolini is a simple dish that packs incredible flavor with almost no effort. You’re going to love the garlicky, tender crunch, and the best part? It pairs perfectly with so many dishes!
