Broccolini with garlic and sesame

Broccolini with garlic and sesame is a quick and flavorful side dish, featuring fresh broccolini sautéed with garlic, spicy chili peppers, and nutty sesame seeds. This simple method results in a vibrant, nutritious addition to any meal.

07 Dec 2025
Cook time 4 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

2 red hot chili peppers
2 garlic cloves
16 oz broccoli
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame seeds

Broccolini with garlic and sesame is a quick and flavorful side dish that's perfect for adding a nutritious touch to any meal. Combining fresh broccolini with the aromatic garlic, spicy chili peppers, and nutty sesame seeds, this dish delivers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. You'll also appreciate the simplicity and speed of the preparation, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chilies: Thinly slice the red hot chili peppers, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
- Garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- Broccolini: Rinse the broccolini thoroughly under cold water and trim any tough ends.

2. Blanch the Broccolini:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season it with a pinch of salt.
- Add the broccolini to the boiling water and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until it’s bright green and just tender.
- Immediately transfer the broccolini to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and set the color. After a few minutes, drain and pat dry with a kitchen towel.

3. Toast the Sesame Seeds:
- In a dry pan over medium heat, add the sesame seeds.
- Stir frequently and toast them until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
- Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Cook the Garlic and Chilies:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies, and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Add the Broccolini:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the blanched broccolini to the pan.
- Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the broccolini is warmed through and slightly crispy around the edges.

6. Season and Finish:
- Drizzle the soy sauce over the broccolini and toss to coat evenly.
- Continue to stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well-mixed and heated through.

7. Serve:
- Transfer the broccolini to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top as a garnish.

In just a few steps, you can prepare this delicious and healthful broccolini with garlic and sesame dish. Its combination of vibrant flavors and textures is sure to impress your family or guests. Enjoy this easy-to-make side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to tofu.

Broccolini with garlic and sesame FAQ:

What is the best cooking time for broccolini to achieve the right doneness?

Blanch the broccolini for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. After that, stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe instead of broccolini?

Yes, you can substitute broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for broccolini. Adjust the blanching time as needed based on the vegetable you choose.

How should I store leftovers of broccolini with garlic and sesame?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, quickly stir-fry in a pan to maintain texture.

What can I substitute for sesame oil in this recipe?

You can use olive oil or another neutral cooking oil as a substitute for sesame oil, though the flavor will be slightly different. Toasted sesame oil provides a unique nutty taste.

What is the purpose of blanching the broccolini before stir-frying?

Blanching helps to set the color, ensures the broccolini remains tender yet crisp, and reduces overall cooking time during stir-frying.

Tips:

- To moderate the heat, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before chopping.

- Blanch the broccolini in boiling water for 2-3 minutes first to keep it bright green and tender.

- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant, enhancing their nutty flavor.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and chili to your taste preference.

- Serve immediately to enjoy the full freshness and crunch of the broccolini.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 72kcal
Protein 3.95g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 3.24g
Sugar 2.68g
Fat 2.52g

Broccolini with garlic and sesame