Get ready to transform your ordinary vegetable side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! This Broccolini with Pine Nut Sauce is not just a recipe, it's a flavor explosion that combines the delicate, slightly peppery taste of broccolini with the rich, buttery crunch of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for elegant dinner parties or a quick weeknight upgrade, this Italian-inspired dish proves that gourmet cooking can be both simple and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb broccolini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the broccolini by washing thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the tough ends of the stems, cutting about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until they become golden brown and fragrant. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the prepared broccolini to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the broccolini for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and slightly charred at the edges. The stems should be bright green and easily pierced with a fork.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the broccolini just before serving, allowing their nutty flavor to complement the vegetables.
- Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with any remaining olive oil from the pan. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Broccolini: Look for bright green stalks with tight, vibrant florets. Avoid any bunches with yellowing leaves or soft spots.
- Toasting Pine Nuts: Watch them carefully! Pine nuts can burn quickly. Keep them moving in the pan and remove from heat the moment they turn golden brown.
- Garlic Technique: Mince garlic finely and add it to the oil just before the broccolini to prevent burning and release maximum flavor.
- Achieve the Perfect Char: Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook broccolini in a single layer to ensure even cooking and those beautiful caramelized edges.
- Seasoning Secret: Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go. The pine nuts add a natural richness, so you won't need much additional seasoning.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while hot to maintain the crisp texture and maximize flavor intensity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
