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Flavorful Charred Broccolini with Lemon Brown Butter and Crispy Capers

charred broccolini with lemon brown butter and crispy capers - featured image
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A quick and easy gourmet side dish featuring charred broccolini tossed in nutty lemon brown butter with crispy capers for a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bunch broccolini (about 8 ounces / 225 grams), washed and trimmed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 55 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the broccolini under cold water. Trim off the bottom inch of the stalks where they’re woody. Pat dry thoroughly.
  2. Place a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and warm for 2 minutes.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan (optional). Lay the broccolini flat in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the undersides are nicely charred. Flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Add a splash of water and cover briefly if needed to steam slightly. Remove broccolini and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir frequently as the butter melts and browns to a golden color with a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  5. Add sliced garlic and capers to the browned butter. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and capers are crispy. Lower heat if needed to prevent burning.
  6. Return the charred broccolini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat evenly with the lemon brown butter and crispy capers.
  7. Remove from heat. Sprinkle lemon zest over the broccolini and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top. Toss lightly and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.

Notes

If butter starts to smoke or smell bitter, discard and start fresh. Crisp capers by draining and patting dry before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a perfect char. Season at the end to keep broccolini crisp. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to preserve caper crunch; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccolini, lemon brown butter, crispy capers, side dish, quick recipe, easy gourmet, healthy vegetables, charred broccolini

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/flavorful-charred-broccolini-with-lemon-brown-butter-and-crispy-capers-recipe-for-easy-gourmet-side-dish/