Are you looking for a new vegetable to add to your cooking repertoire? If so, then you should definitely give broccolini a try! In this blog post, I will instruct you on how to cook broccolini perfectly at home. Besides, I also share tips to help you pick and prepare broccolini before cooking.
1. How To Choose Good Broccolini?
When shopping for broccolini, look for fresh spears that are firm to the touch and free of blemishes. The florets should be tightly closed, and the leaves should be bright green. Avoid any spears that are wilted or yellowing.
If you’re not planning on using your broccolini right away, you can store it in the fridge for up to four days. Place the spears in a perforated plastic bag before storing them in the crisper drawer.
2. How To Cook Broccolini on Stove
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini
- 6 garlic cloves ( minced )
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 2 cups of water
Instructions
Rinse broccolini thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris then drain. Next, trim the ends off of the spears and cut the spears into bite-sized pieces.
In a pot, boil water over high heat. When the water boils, add broccolini pieces to boil for 4 minutes. Then transfer boiled broccolini to the chef basket and rinse under cold water, drain
Next, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add boiled broccolini pieces, garlic minced, black pepper powder, and salt then stir well for 2 minutes
Finally, transfer sauteed broccolini to a plate and enjoy!
3. How To Cook Broccolini in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
Instructions
Rinse broccolini thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris then drain. Next, trim the ends off of the spears and cut the spears into bite-sized pieces.
Preheat your oven to 400 ° F ( 200 ° C )
Cut the broccolini into bite-size pieces then add them to a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper and mix well
Spread out seasoned broccolini on a baking sheet with foil. In a single layer, without overlapping
Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly browned. Transfer your broccolini to a plate and serve immediately.
Another option is to boil broccolini for 3-4 minutes before roasting it. This will help ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn’t get too dry.
4. How To Cook Broccolini in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. ( 200 ° C )
Rinse broccolini thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris then drain. Next, trim the ends off of the spears and cut the spears into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, add broccolini pieces, olive oil, salt, and black pepper powder then mix well
Place the seasoned broccolini in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes until the broccoli is crispy and tender, shaking the basket halfway through
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.
5. How To Cook Broccolini in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccolini
- 4 tbsp water
- 1 safe dish
Instructions
Rinse broccolini thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris then drain. Next, trim the ends off of the spears and cut the spears into bite-sized pieces.
Place prepared broccolini in a microwave-safe dish and add 4 tbsp water. Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check if the broccolini is cooked to your liking. If not, return to the microwave and cook for another 30 seconds.
Once done, drain any excess water and season the broccolini with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Serve immediately.
6. What To Serve With Broccolini?
Serve broccolini alongside baked chicken breasts or thighs for a balanced and nutritious meal.
Broccolini goes well with baked salmon fillets. The flavors complement each other nicely, and it makes for a healthy and satisfying dish.
Toss cooked broccolini with pasta, olive oil, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add some cherry tomatoes or grilled shrimp for extra flavor.
Serve broccolini alongside roasted potatoes for a hearty and flavorful side dish. Season the potatoes with herbs like rosemary or thyme for added taste.
Broccolini can be served with a side of cooked quinoa or rice. These grains provide a nice balance to the vegetable and can be flavored with herbs or a light sauce.
Serve broccolini alongside cooked grains like couscous, bulgur, or farro, along with a side of legumes such as chickpeas or lentils. This combination offers a nutritious and filling meal.
Broccolini can be a tasty side dish for a juicy steak. The tender-crisp texture and vibrant flavor of broccolini provide a nice contrast to the rich meat.
Now, you know how to cook broccolini in 4 different ways! I hope after reading this article you can confidently cook broccolini deliciously at home. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Good luck