Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for oven roasted broccolini, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Broccolini – This veggie is in season year round, but its peak season is from October to April. Look for vibrant green stalks with small, tight florets. Trim 1-2 inches from the stems. If pieces are large or uneven in size, slice lengthwise down the stalk. Consistent thickness ensures that they will cook at a similar rate. Olive Oil – This adds flavor, promotes browning, and helps the seasonings stick. You can also use avocado oil or any heat-safe oil for cooking broccolini. Seasoning – I used simply salt and pepper. You can also experiment with garlic powder, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan cheese.
How To Cook Broccolini
This section shows how to make roasted broccolini, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card. If you want roasted garlic broccolini, you can use the same method I use for my garlic green beans. Roast the broccolini on its own first until it’s close to done, then add sliced or minced garlic in the last few minutes. This avoids burning it. Another option is to simply sprinkle the broccolini with garlic powder before baking.
Other Ways To Cook Broccolini
I think roasting is the best way to cook broccolini because it’s so simple and hands off, but you can also cook it using other methods. All these broccolini recipes are easy to make: This can cause the broccolini to steam instead of roast, making it more mushy than crispy. Make sure each piece is touching the pan.
Sauteed broccolini – Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet, then add broccolini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until tender and slightly crispy on the edges. Air fryer broccolini – Preheat an air fryer to 400 degrees F. Toss the stalks with a drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender and slightly crispy. Grilled broccolini – Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place directly on the grill grates and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
Common Questions
What is broccolini? Broccolini is a green vegetable that’s a cross between broccoli and Chinese broccoli (gai lan). It has small florets and long, thin stalks. “Brocolini” in Italian means “baby broccoli”, which is why it sometimes gets that name. Broccolini vs. broccoli: What’s the difference? Broccolini is similar to broccoli but has smaller florets and thinner stalks. It also has a sweeter and milder taste, while regular broccoli has larger florets and a more robust flavor. Broccoli rabe vs. broccolini: What’s the difference? Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is more closely related to turnips than broccoli, with bitter leaves and small florets. On the other hand, broccolini is less leafy with florets that more closely resemble broccoli. How long to roast broccolini? Roast broccolini for about 14-18 minutes, until the stalks are tender and florets are crispy.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftover roasted broccolini in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat: Simply pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or quickly sauté it in a hot pan with a touch of oil until warm. Freeze: Blanch broccolini in boiling water for a minute to maintain its flavor and texture when freezing. Shock in ice water, then dry and freeze in zip lock bags for up to 3 months. When ready to roast, toss with olive oil and roast, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What To Serve With Roasted Broccolini
Like roasted asparagus, roasted broccolini recipes make a perfect side for any protein! Here are a few ideas:
Chicken – Roast broccolini alongside chicken legs, juicy lemon garlic chicken, some spicy Cajun chicken, or one of my other chicken recipes instead. Steak – If you want a classic steakhouse meal meal, pair this side with a tender filet mignon with mashed cauliflower or mashed potatoes. You can also make a roasted beef tenderloin or tomahawk steak for a special occasion, or a quick and easy sirloin steak for weeknights. Pork – Serve roasted broccolini alongside smothered pork chops or a pork sirloin roast. Fish – Pair this side dish with your choice of baked haddock (pictured above), pan seared halibut, or flavorful pesto salmon for a healthy, elegant meal.
More Roasted Vegetable Recipes
If you like this easy roasted broccolini recipe, here are some other roasted veggie recipes to try: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email.
