As I watched the vibrant green florets transform under the grill’s heat, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of culinary magic coursing through my kitchen. This Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco is my go-to dish for those busy weeknights when I crave something quick yet full of flavor. In just 20 minutes, you can elevate ordinary broccoli to new heights with a creamy, nutty romesco sauce that adds a delightful Mediterranean touch. Not only is this vegetarian delight packed with nutrients, but it’s also an impressive crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a wholesome meal, this recipe is a simple triumph you won’t want to miss. Curious to learn how to make this colorful dish and explore delicious variations? Let’s dive in!
Why is this broccoli dish a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients and ready in 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy schedules.
Flavor explosion: The rich hazelnut romesco sauce elevates the earthy broccoli, creating a perfect balance of taste.
Versatility is key: Swap hazelnuts for almonds or add cheese to match your preferences.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Impress friends and family alike with this stunning, healthy dish that suits any occasion.
Meal prep-friendly, too: Prepare the romesco sauce ahead of time and store for effortless weeknight dinners. For more exciting options, check out Cheesy Chicken Broccoli or Garlic Shrimp Spinach.
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Ingredients
For the Broccoli
- Broccoli Florets – Fresh, firm florets provide the best texture and nutrition.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Use high-quality oil for enhanced flavor and moisture.
- Salt – A sprinkle here will elevate all the flavors beautifully.
For the Romesco Sauce
- Roasted Hazelnuts – This is the star of the sauce; substitute with almonds or walnuts for a twist.
- Red Bell Pepper – Fresh or roasted, it adds vibrant sweetness and color.
- Garlic – Fresh cloves are preferred for a deep, robust flavor in your sauce.
- Smoked Paprika – Essential for that smoky richness; regular paprika can work, too.
- Cayenne Pepper – Optional for those who enjoy a little heat; adjust to personal taste.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Adds a necessary acidity; lemon juice is a great substitute if you prefer.
Let’s not forget that this Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco is not just a meal but a delightful experience waiting to unfold!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
Step 1: Preheat the Grill or Broiler
Begin by preheating your grill or oven broiler to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving those signature charred edges on your broccoli. While it heats up, gather your ingredients and prepare for the next steps, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
In a large bowl, toss fresh broccoli florets with extra virgin olive oil and salt until they are evenly coated. Aim for a glossy finish that promises a rich flavor. This oil not only enhances taste but also ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. Let it sit for a moment while you prepare the grill.
Step 3: Char the Broccoli
Carefully place the coated broccoli florets on the grill or under the broiler. Grill or broil for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even charring. You’ll know the broccoli is done when it becomes tender and displays beautiful golden-brown, charred edges. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Step 4: Blend the Romesco Sauce
While the broccoli chars, it’s time to whip up the creamy Hazelnut Romesco sauce. In a blender, combine roasted hazelnuts, red bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), red wine vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil. Blend until smooth and luscious, adjusting the thickness by adding more oil or a splash of water as needed.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Once your broccoli is perfectly charred, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Generously drizzle the Hazelnut Romesco sauce over the warm broccoli, allowing the creamy sauce to accentuate each floret. For a finishing touch, garnish with additional hazelnuts for crunch and flavor. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and inviting.
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Nut Substitute: Swap roasted hazelnuts with almonds or walnuts for a slightly different flavor that still shines. Each nut brings its own charm, making the sauce unique each time!
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Cheesy Addition: Crumble some feta or goat cheese on top for a tangy, creamy contrast that takes each bite to a new level. This extra richness enhances the overall dish, inviting you to savor every morsel.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the romesco sauce to brighten its flavor and add a pop of color. The vibrancy from the herbs complements the earthy broccoli beautifully.
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Citrusy Zing: Drizzle lemon or lime juice over the charred broccoli just before serving, giving it a refreshing zest. The acidity brightens the dish, uplifting all its rich, smoky flavors.
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Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the romesco sauce for a robust Mediterranean flavor boost. This addition offers a delightful elevation to your culinary experience.
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Heat Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra cayenne pepper while blending for those who crave a bit more spice. It’s all about personal preference—make it as fiery as you like!
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Roasted Veggies: Pair the charred broccoli with additional grilled vegetables, like zucchini or peppers, to create a delicious medley of flavors. This not only enhances presentation but also provides more nutritional balance.
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Pasta Fusion: Toss the charred broccoli and romesco sauce with cooked pasta for a comforting and hearty meal. This makes for a perfect last-minute dinner that’s just as flavorful and satisfying.
Explore these variations and let your creativity flow with this Broccoli Chicken Penne or perhaps some delightful Buttered Noodles Parmesan. Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These tasty Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the romesco sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and nutty flavor. The broccoli can be prepped by tossing it in olive oil and salt, then stored covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. When you’re ready to serve, simply char the broccoli as instructed, drizzle with the romesco sauce, and enjoy a quick, gourmet meal that is just as delicious as when made fresh! With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a stress-free dinner ready in no time.
Expert Tips for Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
- Oil Coating Importance: Ensure a lovely even coating of olive oil on your broccoli to prevent any uneven cooking and maximize flavor.
- Watch the Broccoli: Keep a close eye while charring to achieve that golden brown color without burning; too long on heat can lead to bitterness.
- Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If your romesco sauce is too thick, blend in more olive oil or a splash of water to reach that silky consistency we crave.
- Prep Ahead: For a simpler dinner, consider making your romesco sauce ahead of time; it stores beautifully for up to three days, saving you time.
- Flavor Enhancements: Customize your dish by adding crumbled feta or fresh herbs to the romesco, enhancing the rich flavors of the Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco.
What to Serve with Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
Experience a delightful culinary adventure by pairing this vibrant dish with complementary sides that bring balance and variety to your meal.
- Grilled Lemon Chicken: The bright citrus enhances the earthy notes of the broccoli, creating a fresh harmony on your plate.
- Creamy Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa adds a wholesome texture, while fresh vegetables provide a crisp contrast, perfect alongside the charred veggies.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness beautifully balances the savory romesco sauce, making each bite a comforting delight.
- Warm Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up the romesco sauce, adding a lovely chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the dish.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous with fresh herbs complements the flavors, offering a light yet satisfying accompaniment to the broccoli.
- Arugula Salad: A peppery, fresh salad brightens the meal while adding a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the creamy romesco.
- Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of bubbly enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors, making for an elegant dining experience.
- Lemon Sorbet: Cleansing and refreshing, this dessert offers a sweet citrus counterpoint, making for a delightful finish after your main course.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery addition that becomes a vessel for extra romesco—an irresistible way to enjoy every last bit of sauce.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: These add wonderful colors and flavors to your table while providing a nutritious option that meshes well with the dish.
Storage Tips for Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
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Fridge: Store leftover charred broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining its delightful texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the charred broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
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Romesco Sauce: Keep leftover romesco sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw and stir before serving.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the broccoli in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. Drizzle with extra romesco to rejuvenate flavors, perfect for your Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best broccoli for this dish?
Look for fresh, firm broccoli with tightly closed florets and vibrant green color. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these may indicate that it’s past its prime.
How should I store leftovers from the Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco?
Store leftover charred broccoli and romesco sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the broccoli cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain its texture.
Can I freeze the charred broccoli or romesco sauce?
Absolutely! For the charred broccoli, freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. For the romesco sauce, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months as well; just thaw and stir before serving.
What if my romesco sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your romesco sauce comes out too thick, you can easily adjust the consistency. Simply blend in more olive oil a tablespoon at a time or add a splash of water until you reach your desired texture. This should create that luscious, smooth sauce we all crave!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! This dish is vegetarian, making it a great option for non-meat eaters. If you’re concerned about nut allergies, be sure to substitute the hazelnuts with seeds such as sunflower seeds while using the other ingredients from the romesco sauce, which still offers a great flavor.
Can I add any other flavors to the romesco sauce?
Definitely! You can elevate the flavor of the romesco sauce by incorporating ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil added to the sauce can also introduce freshness and brightness to your Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco: A Super Flavor Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or oven broiler to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss fresh broccoli florets with extra virgin olive oil and salt until they are evenly coated.
- Carefully place the coated broccoli florets on the grill or under the broiler. Grill or broil for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even charring.
- In a blender, combine roasted hazelnuts, red bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), red wine vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil. Blend until smooth.
- Once your broccoli is charred, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle the Hazelnut Romesco sauce over the warm broccoli.
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