Quick, simple, and packed with flavor, this SAUTÉED BROCCOLINI is the perfect side dish for any meal. A quick toss in garlic-infused olive oil, a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parmesan make it irresistibly delicious. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a dinner party!
Broccolini has always been one of our go-to side dishes—it’s quick, easy, and adds a fresh, vibrant touch to any meal. It’s a little more tender than traditional broccoli and has a slightly sweet, mild flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic, olive oil, and just a hint of spice. Whenever we’re in a rush to get dinner on the table, this simple sautéed broccolini recipe is a lifesaver.
What makes this recipe so great is how effortlessly it comes together. A quick sauté in garlic-infused olive oil gives the broccolini a delicious depth of flavor, while a splash of water helps it steam just enough to become perfectly tender. The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, and a final sprinkle of parmesan cheese takes it to the next level. It’s the kind of side dish that feels fancy but takes less than 10 minutes to make.
We love serving this alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or even tossed into a grain bowl for an extra boost of greens. It’s versatile enough to go with just about anything, and if you’re looking for a way to elevate your vegetable game, this is the recipe to try!
IN THIS RECIPE...
What do I need to make this recipe?
- BROCCOLINI – A hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, broccolini has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with tender stems that cook quickly.
- OLIVE OIL – Helps sauté the garlic and broccolini while adding richness and depth.
- GARLIC – Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory flavor. Sliced garlic gives a more mellow taste, while minced garlic provides a stronger punch.
- CRUSHED RED PEPPER – Adds a subtle kick of heat to balance the flavors. Adjust to taste or skip if you prefer a milder dish.
- KOSHER SALT – Enhances the natural flavor of the broccolini.
- WATER– Creates steam to help soften the broccolini while keeping its vibrant color.
- PARMESAN CHEESE – A final sprinkle of parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish that pairs perfectly with the broccolini’s tender crunch.
Ingredient Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ways to customize your sautéed broccolini:
- LEMON & GARLIC – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest just before serving for a bright, citrusy touch.
- SOY & SESAME – Replace olive oil with sesame oil and finish with a drizzle of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.
- BUTTER & HERBS – Swap the olive oil for butter and add fresh thyme or rosemary for a more herbaceous flavor.
- CHEESY & CREAMY – Instead of parmesan, melt in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy element.
- SPICY & BOLD – Up the red pepper flakes or toss in a dash of chili oil for an extra fiery version.
This simple dish is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy broccolini!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Oil and Infuse with Garlic
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it begins to shimmer slightly. At this point, add the sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden, but not browned, as it can turn bitter if overcooked.
2. Add the Broccolini and Season
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the broccolini directly to the pan. Use tongs or a wooden spoon to toss the broccolini in the hot oil, ensuring each piece gets coated evenly. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, which will help draw out moisture and enhance the flavor. Let the broccolini cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to develop some light caramelization. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor.
3. Steam for Perfect Tenderness
After the broccolini has sautéed for a few minutes, pour in 2 tablespoons of water and immediately cover the skillet with a lid. Reducing the heat to medium-low, let the broccolini steam for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The steam will help soften the stems while keeping the tops tender-crisp. You’ll know it’s ready when the broccolini is vibrant green and fork-tender but still has a bit of bite.
4. Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and give the broccolini one final toss. Transfer it to a serving plate and immediately grate fresh parmesan cheese over the top. The residual heat will slightly melt the parmesan, creating a savory, nutty finish. Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite protein, or enjoy it on its own for a quick and healthy bite.
This method ensures broccolini that’s flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked every time!
Related Recipes
Sauteed Broccolini
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 bunch broccolini
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoon water
- Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the garlic and crushed red pepper and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Add the broccolini and salt and toss to coat in oil.1 bunch broccolini, ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the water, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccolini is tender and vibrant green, about 3-5 minutes.2 tablespoon water
- Remove from the heat, top with freshly grated parmesan cheese, serve, and enjoy!Parmesan cheese