5 Delicious Brocolini Recipes You Must Try

Brocolini, often mistaken for baby broccoli, is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli (kale). It offers a milder taste and more tender texture, making it an excellent choice for various culinary adventures. If you're new to brocolini or looking for new ways to enjoy it, here are five delectable recipes that will inspire you to add this green vegetable to your meal rotation.

1. Garlic Butter Brocolini

This simple yet exquisite dish brings out the best in brocolini. Here's how to prepare it:

• 3 bunches of brocolini, washed and trimmed
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blanch brocolini in salted boiling water for 2 minutes, then shock in ice water to stop cooking.
2. Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic, cooking until fragrant but not browned.
3. Toss the brocolini in the garlic butter until it’s well-coated and slightly crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if you're using it.

🍲 Note: Blanching brocolini ensures it retains its vibrant color and texture, and stops overcooking in the pan.

2. Brocolini and Mushroom Stir-Fry

A quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal:

• 2 bunches of brocolini, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons of sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch in a bowl.
2. Heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add oil and stir-fry mushrooms until they start to brown.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and brocolini. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the sauce, tossing everything to coat. Cook until brocolini is tender but still crisp.

This stir-fry is not only tasty but also high in nutrients, providing a balance of iron, vitamin C, and fiber from the brocolini.

3. Brocolini Frittata

Perfect for brunch or dinner, this frittata uses brocolini to add a delightful crunch and green goodness to your eggs:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup brocolini, chopped
• 1/2 cup of grated cheese (Parmesan or cheddar)
• 2 tablespoons of milk
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Onion or scallions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese and chopped brocolini.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet, sauté onions or scallions if using.
4. Pour in the egg mixture. Cook on the stovetop until the edges start to set.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is fully set.

🍳 Note: You can customize this frittata by adding other vegetables or meats for variety.

4. Roasted Brocolini with Almonds

This dish brings a delightful crunch with the addition of almonds, enhancing the brocolini's flavor:

• 3 bunches of brocolini
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
• 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon juice for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss brocolini with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15 minutes, then sprinkle almonds over and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Finish with a drizzle of lemon juice before serving.

This recipe showcases how roasting can elevate brocolini, giving it a caramelized edge that pairs perfectly with the crunch of almonds.

5. Brocolini and White Bean Soup

A comforting and nutritious soup that uses brocolini for its unique flavor:

• 2 bunches of brocolini, chopped
• 1 can of white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add garlic, then the chopped brocolini, cooking for a couple of minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add beans, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook until the brocolini is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.

This soup is not only heart-warming but also high in fiber and protein, making it a complete meal when served with crusty bread.

The versatility of brocolini is truly remarkable. From a simple garlic butter dish to an intricate stir-fry, brocolini adds a nutritious and delightful twist to any recipe. Its unique flavor, tender texture, and vibrant color make it a favorite in various cuisines. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or a bit more involved, these recipes provide an excellent starting point to explore the possibilities of cooking with brocolini.

What is Brocolini and how is it different from broccoli?

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Brocolini is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese kale, offering a milder, sweeter taste and a more tender stalk than broccoli.

Can I substitute regular broccoli for brocolini in these recipes?

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Yes, although you’ll need to adjust cooking times since broccoli can take longer to cook than brocolini.

How can I store brocolini to keep it fresh?

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Store brocolini in a perforated plastic bag in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer to maintain freshness for up to 5-7 days.