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Golden Roasted Broccolini with Pecorino and Pine Nuts

Golden Roasted Broccolini with Pecorino and Pine Nuts

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Sheet pan or rimmed baking tray Essential for even roasting.
  • Mixing bowl To toss the broccolini with oil and seasoning before roasting.
  • Microplane or fine grater For zesting the lemon and grating Pecorino finely.
  • Small skillet To toast the pine nuts without burning.
  • Tongs or spatula For flipping the broccolini halfway through roasting.
  • Oven Roasting is key for deep caramelized flavor. No air fryer shortcuts here.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb broccolini or baby broccoli – Look for firm, fresh stalks with dark green heads.
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – The better the quality the better the flavor. This is key to getting that irresistible crispy finish.
  • 3 garlic cloves finely sliced – Classic olive oil garlic combination infuses each stalk with bold, aromatic depth.
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts – Lightly toasted; they add texture and a delicate buttery flavor.
  • 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese – Sharp salty, and perfect for broccolini.
  • Zest of 1 lemon – Adds brightness and balances the richness.
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste.
  • Optional: red pepper flakes – For a hint of heat.

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven

  1. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is what gives roasted broccolini its signature crispy edges and tender stems.

Prepare the Broccolini

  1. Rinse the broccolini under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Trim about half an inch from the bottom of the stalks—especially if they’re thick. Leave the florets and most of the stalk intact.

Toss with Flavor

  1. In a large bowl, toss the broccolini with the olive oil, garlic slices, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is coated thoroughly. This combo will infuse each stalk with a rich olive oil garlic aroma and help achieve that golden exterior.

Roast to Perfection

  1. Spread the broccolini on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 10 minutes, then use tongs to flip. Continue roasting another 8 minutes, or until the stalks are crisp-tender and the tips are slightly charred. This is where the magic of the best roasted broccoli happens.

Toast the Pine Nuts

  1. While the broccolini is roasting, place your pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove immediately to prevent burning.

Finish with Flair

  1. Remove the broccolini from the oven. While still warm, toss with lemon zest, Pecorino Romano, and toasted pine nuts. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a spicy spark if you like a little kick.

Serve Immediately

  1. Plate the broccolini on a serving platter. Finish with another light drizzle of olive oil if desired.