Broccolini and Almond Wonder

A quick and easy sauté of broccolini and almonds, flavored with garlic, lemon, and red pepper flakes. This dish is a great way to use up leftover broccolini, and it's also a healthy and flavorful side dish.

Broccolini is a hybrid vegetable that was developed in the 1990s by crossing broccoli with Chinese kale. It has a milder flavor than broccoli, and it's also more tender. Broccolini is a good source of vitamins A and C, and it's also a good source of fiber.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound broccolini, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the broccolini for 2-3 minutes, or until bright green and tender-crisp.
2. While the broccolini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the almonds to the skillet and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Drain the broccolini and add it to the skillet along with the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
6. Toss to coat and cook until warmed through, about 2 minutes.
7. Serve immediately.

Why It Works

• The combination of broccolini, almonds, garlic, lemon, and red pepper flakes creates a flavorful and complex dish.
• The blanching of the broccolini helps to preserve its bright green color and crisp texture.
• The toasting of the almonds adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
• The addition of lemon juice and red pepper flakes brightens and spices up the dish.