Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the spotlight, Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing is about to become your go-to. Smoky, zippy, and impossibly fresh, it’s a vibrant recipe that turns simple vegetables into a showstopper, thanks to bold flavors and a punchy, Mediterranean-style dressing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing is how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can create such a knockout dish. Each item brings something important—be it texture, brightness, or depth—to every single bite.

• Broccolini (or regular broccoli): The slender stems and florets char beautifully, giving a sweet earthiness; you can swap in regular broccoli if needed.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Splits its duties between roasting and building the luscious dressing—a good one makes all the difference.
• Capers: These little umami bombs bring punchy saltiness; rinse them well for the best flavor.
• Preserved lemon: Adds citrusy, almost floral zing no ordinary lemon can give—look for the skins in a jar, or make your own.
• Garlic: A single clove brightens the whole dish with its aromatic kick.
• Lemon juice: A fresh squeeze ties together all those sharp and savory elements.
• Salt: Just enough to hit all the right savory notes.
• Parsley leaves: The finishing touch for color and herby freshness.
• Feta (optional): Crumbled over the top, its creaminess and tang are irresistible but totally up to you.
• Toasted seeds (optional): Sprinkling on pumpkin, sunflower, or sesame seeds adds crunch and nutty flavor.

Variations

One of the most fun things about Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing is that it’s effortlessly adaptable. You can tweak it to fit what you have on hand, your dietary needs, or the mood of your meal—get creative and make it your own!

• Add Baby Potatoes: Toss in small halved potatoes to roast alongside for a heartier, picnic-ready salad.
• Go Dairy-Free: Simply skip the feta or swap for a vegan cheese crumble for a plant-based feast.
• Switch Up the Greens: Try broccolini, regular broccoli, or even cauliflower—each soaks up the zesty dressing in a different way.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or chopped fresh red chile to the dressing for subtle heat.

How to Make Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Slide your sheet pan into the oven and preheat to 440°F—starting with a hot tray helps the broccolini (or broccoli) develop that signature char. Meanwhile, trim the ends off your broccolini or cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets, ensuring even roasting. Toss the greens in a big bowl with half the olive oil, coating every nook for maximum crisp.

Step 2: Roast Until Charred and Tender

When the oven is piping hot, carefully lay the coated broccolini on the sheet pan, spreading it out for the best color. Roast for 10 minutes, then turn the pieces so each side gets golden and crisp. Depending on the size, broccolini is perfectly charred after about 15–20 minutes, while broccoli florets might take closer to 30—look for crisp-tender stems and caramelized edges.

Step 3: Make the Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing

As the broccolini roasts, whip up the star of the dish: the dressing. In your now-empty mixing bowl, add the remaining olive oil, chopped capers, preserved lemon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and most of the parsley. Stir it all together—the vivid aroma will wake up your kitchen. This zingy marinade brings the whole dish to life!

Step 4: Dress Broccolini While Hot

Transfer the just-roasted, piping-hot broccolini straight into the bowl of dressing. Toss everything together so the dressing coats and soaks into the veggies—this step ensures all that flavor gets absorbed, whether you plan to serve it warm or as a salad later.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Arrange your shiny, beautifully dressed broccolini on a platter. Scatter with the rest of the parsley for a pop of green. If you want to make it more of a salad, let it cool a little, then top with crumbled feta and a shower of toasted seeds before serving. Get ready for compliments—this Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing never fails to impress!

How to Serve Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing

Garnishes

This dish loves a flourish. A little extra chopped parsley is a classic, but crumbled feta, a handful of toasted seeds, or even a zesting of fresh lemon over the top all make Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing extra special and restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair this broccolini with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, a fluffy pile of couscous, or a grainy farro salad for a vibrant (and effortless) meal. Honestly, it’s just as welcome alongside simple pasta or as part of a colorful mezze board.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the broccolini on a wide, bright platter with feta and seeds scattered artfully for a Mediterranean vibe, or pile it high in a shallow bowl for a rustic feel. For parties, serve individual portions in small jars or cups—everyone loves their own cheerful, salad-in-a-glass moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors just get more delicious as they mingle.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze the roasted broccolini, the texture won’t be quite as snappy when thawed, and the dressing may separate. For best taste and crunch, try to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated instead.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your broccolini on a sheet pan and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, just until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a salad—no warming needed!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for something vibrant and surprising, don’t wait to try this Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon & Caper Dressing. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and sure to become a staple—one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Enjoy every zingy, salty, herb-flecked bite!

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