The moment I squeezed a lemon over a steaming plate of charred broccoli, I knew I had discovered something special. A quick trip to the local farmers’ market led me to the freshest broccoli florets, begging to be transformed into a smoky delight. The recipe for Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco danced in my mind—its nutty romesco sauce and crispy edges promising layers of flavor that could elevate any meal.
In just 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant centerpiece that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a healthy dose of nutrition. The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity: a few quality ingredients and a couple of techniques transform everyday broccoli into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this charred broccoli paired with rich hazelnut romesco is here to rescue you from the monotony of fast food. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that celebrates vegetarian Mediterranean goodness!
Why is Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Special?
Vibrant colors and flavors come together in this stunning dish that makes any meal feel special. Smoky goodness from perfectly charred broccoli paired with the creamy, nutty romesco is a flavor explosion. Quick to prepare, this recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Versatile enough to complement grilled meats or shine on its own, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t miss this option to expand your culinary repertoire with more delicious Mediterranean recipes!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Ingredients
For the Broccoli
- Broccoli Florets – Fresh, firm florets bring vibrancy and nutrition; can be swapped with cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for variety.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality oil enhances flavor and ensures a crispy texture when roasted.
- Salt – Essential for amplifying the flavors; adjust to taste for the best results.
For the Romesco Sauce
- Roasted Hazelnuts – These add a creamy, nutty essence to the sauce; store-bought options can save you time.
- Red Bell Pepper – Fresh or roasted, it adds sweetness to balance the nutty romesco.
- Garlic Cloves – Fresh cloves bring aromatic warmth; substitute garlic powder if you’re short on time.
- Smoked Paprika – This key ingredient provides depth; if you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, just adjust to your taste.
- Cayenne Pepper – For a touch of heat; you can omit for a milder flavor as needed.
- Red Wine Vinegar – This brightens the sauce; feel free to use lemon juice for a different tang.
How to Make Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
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Preheat your grill or oven broiler to high. This step is key for getting that perfect char on your broccoli.
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Prepare Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and season with salt. Ensure all florets are well coated for maximum flavor.
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Char the Broccoli: Grill or broil the broccoli for 8-10 minutes until tender and you see those beautiful charred edges. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden brown hue!
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Make Romesco Sauce: In a blender, combine the roasted hazelnuts, red bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, red wine vinegar, and the remaining olive oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Serve: Plate the charred broccoli, drizzle generously with the hazelnut romesco sauce, and garnish with extra hazelnuts for that delightful crunch. Enjoy this delicious dish!
Optional: Drizzle with a little lemon juice for an extra pop of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
- Fridge: Store leftover charred broccoli and romesco sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor, consume as soon as possible.
- Freezer: Freeze charred broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat broccoli in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F to retain its char. The hazelnut romesco can be warmed gently in a saucepan.
- Serving Tips: When ready to serve, drizzle the romesco sauce over the reheated broccoli for a fresh burst of flavor, ensuring your dish shines just as brightly as the first time!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Variations
Unleash your creativity and taste buds with exciting options to customize this delightful dish!
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Nut Alternatives: Swap hazelnuts for almonds or walnuts in your romesco for a fresh twist on flavor and texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with what’s in your pantry!
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Cheesy Addition: Crumble feta or goat cheese on top for an added creamy touch that contrasts beautifully with the nutty sauce. This elevates the dish into a rich, comforting experience.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the romesco for a burst of color and brightness. This adds an aromatic layer that complements the smokiness of the charred broccoli.
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Spice It Up: Introduce cumin or chili powder into the romesco sauce for a deeper flavor profile with a hint of warmth. It opens up a whole new dimension of taste that spice lovers will adore.
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Zesty Twist: Drizzle lemon or lime juice over your serving for a zesty punch that brightens the dish. A bit of acidity can really enhance the overall flavor.
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Grain Boost: Serve on a bed of quinoa or couscous to turn this dish into a wholesome meal. The grains soak up the romesco, providing a delightful complement to the charred broccoli.
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Tangy Additions: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the romesco for a Mediterranean flair. These elements add unique textures and flavors that make each bite exciting.
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Red Pepper Twist: If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider roasting a jalapeño along with the red bell pepper for your romesco. It adds a lovely smoky heat that brings excitement to the dish.
Each variation invites you to elevate this dish, making it uniquely yours! Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.
Make Ahead Options
These Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the romesco sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply blend the roasted hazelnuts, red bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The broccoli florets can also be prepped by washing and tossing them with olive oil and salt up to 24 hours before cooking; this helps enhance their flavor while preventing browning. When you’re ready to serve, just char the broccoli as directed and drizzle with the prepared romesco sauce for a quick, delicious dish that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
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High Temperature: Cook the broccoli at a high temperature to achieve maximum char; use a grill or broiler for best results.
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Even Coating: Ensure each broccoli floret is well-coated in olive oil and salt to prevent uneven cooking and enhance flavor.
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Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on the broccoli while it’s grilling or broiling; look for deep browning to know it’s perfectly charred.
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Blend Efficiently: Prepare the romesco sauce while the broccoli cooks to streamline your cooking time and have everything ready to serve together.
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Nut Variations: Feel free to swap out hazelnuts for almonds or walnuts in the romesco; just remember to consider their flavor profiles for the best pairing!
What to Serve with Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this vibrant dish with complementary flavors and textures that elevate your meal to new heights.
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Grilled Lemon Chicken: The citrusy brightness of lemony grilled chicken balances the earthy and nutty flavors of the romesco, creating a delightful harmony.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds a light and nutritious component, perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the charred broccoli beautifully, while their creamy texture contrasts with the crunchy florets.
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Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread on the side for dipping into the creamy romesco, offering a lovely textural contrast and a satisfying bite.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs adds a lightness that pairs well with the rich flavors of the romesco, making it a perfect addition to the plate.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: Brighten your meal with refreshing sparkling water infused with mint; it cleanses the palate and enhances the meal’s fresh Mediterranean vibe.
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Fig and Goat Cheese Salad: A beautiful salad combining figs and creamy goat cheese provides a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the earthy romesco sauce.
These options not only enhance the star of the show but also make your meals memorable and satisfying!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, firm broccoli florets without any dark spots or yellows. The florets should be a vibrant green shade, indicating freshness. If you can find organic options, even better, as they often taste sweeter and more flavorful.
How should I store leftover charred broccoli and romesco sauce?
You can store any leftover charred broccoli and romesco sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the broccoli cool completely before sealing it to maintain its delightful texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the broccoli gently in the oven to keep its impressive char.
Can I freeze the charred broccoli and romesco sauce?
Yes! To freeze, start by laying the charred broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze the florets for about 2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For the romesco sauce, pour it into an ice cube tray or a small, airtight container and freeze. Thaw both in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I do if my romesco sauce is too thick?
If your romesco sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Just add a tablespoon of water or extra olive oil gradually while blending until you reach your desired consistency. This sauce should be creamy but not overly thick; it should glide smoothly over the broccoli, enhancing that lovely, charred texture.
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that hazelnuts are a key ingredient in the romesco sauce, so if you or someone you’re serving has a nut allergy, it’s best to substitute them. You could try using seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a nut-free alternative. They will give a slightly different flavor but will still create a delicious sauce. Always ensure that the substitute complements the other ingredients well!
How can I make this dish more vibrant and colorful?
Very! You can enhance both flavor and visual appeal by adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sliced radishes to your plate. Toss these veggies on your grilling rack alongside the broccoli. They will add not just color but also a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the nutty romesco sauce. Enjoy experimenting!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco for Perfect Smoky Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or oven broiler to high.
- Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and season with salt.
- Grill or broil the broccoli for 8-10 minutes until tender and charred.
- In a blender, combine hazelnuts, red bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne, red wine vinegar, and remaining olive oil. Blend until smooth.
- Plate the charred broccoli, drizzle with romesco sauce, and garnish with extra hazelnuts.