Just Say Yes To Broccolini

I tried broccolini for the first time today and I love it even more than broccoli. If you have never tried broccolini you are really missing out on a delicious side dish that you can make in a matter of minutes.
Broccolini is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli. With thin, elongated stems, broccolini tastes similar to broccoli, but is more tender in texture, and slightly sweeter in flavor. It was first invented in 1993.
Broccolini is a great addition to your diet, and is rich in fiber, Vitamins A and C, as well as several minerals.

Rinse the broccolini then pat dry with a paper towel.

Cut the end off of the stem but don’t cut too much because the stem is the best part.

Add about an inch of water to a large skillet that has a lid.
Place the broccolini in the skillet trying not to overlap them, put the lid on.
Cook on medium heat until your desired tenderness is reached then remove from the burner.
These cook fast so keep an eye on them.

Remove the water from the skillet, leaving the broccolini in the hot skillet. Immediately add the salt, pepper and 4 Tbsp melted butter or use your favorite seasonings. Using tongs, turn the broccolini over and over until it is all coated in the butter and the seasonings.

Sprinkle your favorite freshly grated cheese on top, optional.

Serve immediately or keep warm.
http://www.InDianesKitchen.com
Categories: Broccoli, Butter, Spices/Seasoning, Vegetables/Slaws/Salads

I really like broccolini, cook with it often
I will from now on too, so good!
That looks like what we call broccoli stems
That’s interesting Derick, they are primarily stems but they do have the florets too. The stem is so tender and sweet.
PS Jackie says its called “tender stems”
I can see why! Not only are the tender but sweeter than our regular broccoli.
I love broccoli but I’ve never tried broccolini either. Sounds just as easy and versatile for cooking with though, will have to try it. This summer in the UK there’s been a shortage of broccol harvested because of the heatwave we’ve had for much of July and August.
Oh no Paul, I bet the prices jumped up too.
Yes, they have a bit. 🙂
Thank you so much Ned!
Love growing it, and eating it!
You grow it? How do you keep the bugs from eating it? Did you start it from seed? I may have to see if I can find it next year.
I put in four plants from the garden center in spring. When they are first planted, I cover them with a floating row cover to keep pests off, but as they gain strength, that’s not needed. Good, rich organic soil is always the first line in keeping plants strong so they are not attacked by bugs in the first place.
Thank you Dorothy!
Looks absolutely yum. Here in the UK we also have purple sprouting broccoli – not sure if you have that, but if you ever see it try some!
No I have never seen it. I wish our stores and farm stands had food like that. It took years before we could buy broccolini!
I did a quick google search and there is a US company called rareseeds.com that sells the seeds! I know you are a handy veg grower – and it’s not difficult to grow, I’ve done it myself.
You’re the best, thank you Emily!
I have never heard of broccolini! And I am continually telling myself we need to eat more broccoli! I will have to keep an eye out for this.
If you love broccoli you will love broccolini even more.
I prefer the Chinese broccoli because of the stems and this hybrid is just a nice blend of both worlds! Love the simplicity of the yumminess too!
I don’t think we have the Chinese broccoli and now I want to try it!
Thanks for the info Diane … of course it will not surprise you that I’ve never heard of broccolini. 🙂
I’ve heard of it but never tried it until now, so good Linda! I’m sure you’re not the only one that has never heard of it.
Whew – I am usually the last to know about or have tried something. 🙂
looks like it came out great
It did and was so sweet, thank you!
;0)
Thanks for sharing this information and recipe, Diane. The small town where I spend the summers won’t have it, but it should be available in the stores where I winter. I’m going to bookmark this and give it a try in a few months.
You’re welcome Linda. This was my first time trying broccolini and I already had it again.
I will try that someday, looks delicious
It was delicious, tender and sweet. Have a great day!
Yes, to these healthy greens!
So good!
We also recently tried broccolini for the first time (and we used the same recipe as yours here). I agree – it’s better than just plain broccoli!
I’m glad you can find it, well worth the effort and so simple to prepare.