Sweet and sour broccolini

Sweet and Sour Broccolini features a delightful balance of tangy lemon and savory salsa flavors. This simple sautéing method creates a vibrant side dish that complements various meals.

29 Jan 2026
Cook time 6 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

16 oz broccoli
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
1/2 lemon
2 tbsp salsa sauce
Sweet and sour broccolini

Sweet and Sour Broccolini is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the tangy and sweet flavors, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients like broccolini, garlic, ginger, lemon, and salsa sauce to create a delicious, healthy side dish that can complement various main courses.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccolini:
- Rinse the broccolini under cold water and trim any rough ends. If the stems are thick, you may want to cut them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
2. Preheat the Pan:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger root to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Add Broccolini:
- Add the broccolini to the skillet. Toss to coat with the garlic and ginger, then sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccolini should be tender-crisp.
5. Add Sweet and Sour Elements:
- Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the broccolini. Add the salsa sauce and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broccolini to absorb the sauce.
6. Taste and Adjust:
- Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lemon juice according to your preference.
7. Serve:
- Transfer the sweet and sour broccolini to a serving dish. Enjoy as a vibrant side dish or a light main course. For an additional flavor boost, you can also add sesame seeds.

Once prepared, Sweet and Sour Broccolini is best served warm as a side dish. The vibrant flavors harmonize beautifully, creating a simple yet exquisite way to enjoy your greens. Whether you're pairing it with grilled meats, stir-fries, or enjoying it on its own, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy both the palate and the belly.

Sweet and sour broccolini FAQ:

How long should I sauté the broccolini for?

Sauté the broccolini for about 5-7 minutes until it is tender-crisp, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccolini?

While fresh broccolini provides the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli. However, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy.

What can I substitute for the salsa sauce?

If you don’t have salsa sauce, you can use a mix of tomato sauce with a bit of vinegar and spices, or a store-bought sweet and sour sauce as an alternative.

How should I store leftover broccolini?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture.

What can I pair with sweet and sour broccolini?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a balanced meal, as well as over rice or quinoa for added substance.

Tips:

- Choose fresh, bright green broccolini with firm stalks for the best flavor and texture.

- Ensure to finely mince the garlic and ginger to evenly distribute their flavors throughout the dish.

- Preheat the olive oil in a pan to infuse it with garlic and ginger flavors, but be careful not to burn them.

- Consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in your dish.

- Cut the lemon in half and use a citrus reamer to get the most juice out.

- Taste the salsa sauce beforehand to ensure its flavor complements the other ingredients.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 54kcal
Protein 3.34g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 3.35g
Sugar 2.29g
Fat 3.85g

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