Let’s be real – getting kids to eat their veggies is basically an almost-impossible mission. As a mom, I’ve tried so many tricks, and any type of greens in general has always been one of those “please just take one bite” situations. I mean, we all know they are rich with nutrients, but when it’s plain and mushy – not gonna fly.
Blanched broccolini (or any greens really) are just too boring, even for me. But then in a lightbulb moment I figured out how to prepare them – my way. A method that checks all the boxes: crispy, flavourful, and finished with aromatic oil and parmesan cheese. Best part? My kids actually eat them. Voluntarily!
What the Heck Are Broccolini?
Broccolini is a tender, slightly sweeter type of broccoli, with long thin stalks and smaller florets. Unlike regular broccoli, which has a thicker stem and denser crown, broccolini is a hybrid between broccoli and Chinese broccoli (gai lan), making it quicker to cook and milder in flavour.
Why You’ll Love the Broccolini
If you’ve ever thought broccolini was bland or boring, this will change your mind.
This method of cooking the broccolini gives it a golden, almost crispy finish with a boost of nutty, garlicky, umami flavour thanks to the sesame oil and parmesan cheese.
It is incredibly easy to make so you don’t need many tools, time and energy to do so. In general, they are an amazing side dish or just a healthy snack (that I eat too often to count).
What You’ll Need
Fresh broccolini – Look for the sweet, long-stemmed kind (I get mine at Costco). If using regular crowns, slice thin all the way down the stem.
Toasted sesame oil – It adds that nutty flavour that transforms the dish.
Garlic – Minced garlic clove with add warm, aromatic flavour.
Olive oil – The olive oil mixed with minced garlic will give a final flavourful drizzle.
Dry parmesan cheese – Adds crunch and saltiness to finish the dish.
Kosher salt – To season to taste.
Optional: Red chilli flakes if you like a spicy kick.
Equipment you need
No fancy gadgets required here, just a good pan and a bit of heat.
Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan – These are your best friends for getting golden, slightly crispy finish without burning or sticking. A good cast iron pan gives that perfect char, but a non-stick works just as well if that’s what you have.
Toasted Broccolini with Sesame Oil and Parmesan Cheese
Course: SidesDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes5
minutes250
kcal10
minutesToasted broccolini made with sesame oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese. An easy, kid-approved side dish that is super simple and flavourful. Try my recipe now.
Ingredients
300 grams fresh broccolini (tender stems preferred)
2–3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
1–2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzle)
1 tablespoon dry parmesan cheese (for topping)
Kosher salt, to taste
Red chilli flakes (optional)
Directions
- Wash and pat dry the broccolini. I like using a salad spinner, but a big bowl with cold water and 1 tablespoon baking soda works too. Soak 5–10 minutes, rinse, then pat dry with a kitchen towel. You want to make sure that the broccolini are dry to get a crispy effect.
- Warm up the pan on medium-high and drizzle in the sesame oil.
- Add the broccolini in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes per side. You want it golden and slightly crisp (not burned).
- Move the broccolini to a serving plate.
- Mix olive oil and minced garlic and drizzle over the broccolini.
- Sprinkle with dry parmesan cheese and kosher salt. Add chilli flakes to spice it up (optional)
How to Serve Them
The toasted broccolini are one of my favourite side dish and a healthy snack. I usually serve them with grilled steak or salmon, mushroom pasta (since my kids like broccolini only this way), or as a simple healthy snack that I go crazy about. Pair them with whatever you like: chicken, rice bowls, sandwiches. It plays well with just about anything.
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Hi, I’m Biba, the creator of Chick in Apron! As a busy mom and food blogger, I am passionate about making cooking fun and stress-free. I share simple, delicious recipes that are quick and easy to prepare, along with helpful kitchen hacks to save you time.
So, let’s turn cooking into something you enjoy with tasty meals and handy tips to make kitchen tasks a breeze! ✨
