Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle
Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle is a quick and vibrant dish that transforms simple ingredients into something special. This recipe brings out the best in broccoli with a nutty sauce and crunchy almonds, making it a perfect addition to your dining table.
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Ingredients for Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle
Broccoli is the star of this show, providing a nutritious base that's roasted to perfection to enhance its natural flavors. Olive oil helps the broccoli become tender and adds a subtle richness. A little bit of salt and black pepper is all you need to season the broccoli just right.
The lemon juice brings a refreshing tang to the tahini sauce, which complements the roasted broccoli beautifully. Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, gives the sauce a creamy texture and nutty taste. Garlic adds a punch of flavor to the drizzle, making it more robust. A splash of water helps to achieve the perfect consistency. Finally, slivered almonds, when toasted, add a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish.
Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle Tips & Tricks
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broccoli before roasting.
- If you’re short on time, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes instead of using the oven.
- Don’t skip lining the baking sheet with parchment paper—it prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
Serving Ideas for Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle
This broccoli delight pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. If you're aiming for a vegetarian meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or couscous for a complete dish. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also add a nice creamy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, but thaw it and pat dry to remove excess moisture before roasting.
- What can I use instead of tahini?
- Peanut butter or almond butter can be used as alternatives, though they will slightly change the flavor.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle Recipe Walkthrough
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting broccoli to get that nice, slightly crispy finish. While that's warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
Now, let's prep the broccoli. Cut the heads into florets, aiming for bite-sized pieces so they roast evenly. Toss these florets in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they're well-coated. This step ensures every piece is seasoned just right.
Spread the broccoli out on your prepared baking sheet. Try not to crowd them; giving each floret some space helps them roast rather than steam. Pop them in the oven for about 20 minutes. You'll know they're done when they’re tender with a slightly crispy edge.
While the broccoli is roasting, it's time to whip up that delicious lemon-tahini drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, and water. Keep whisking until you have a smooth sauce. If it's too thick, feel free to add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.
Once the broccoli is out of the oven, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle the lemon-tahini sauce over the top. Finally, sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds over everything. This simple step adds a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to your dish.
Why This Broccoli Delight with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle Works
- Easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect blend of savory, tangy, and nutty flavors.
- Healthy and nutritious with simple, fresh ingredients.
- Great for weeknight dinners or as a side for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 heads fresh broccoli (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Cut broccoli into florets and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- 3. Spread the broccoli evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy.
- 4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, and water until smooth to make the drizzle.
- 5. Once broccoli is roasted, place it on a serving platter and drizzle with the lemon-tahini sauce.
- 6. Sprinkle toasted slivered almonds over the top before serving.