Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a dish that perfectly balances earthy flavors with a nutty crunch? Charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco is one of those rare delights. The deep, smoky char on the broccoli pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of the romesco sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a vibrant side at a summer barbecue or a sophisticated starter for an elegant dinner party, charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco is sure to impress. It’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Get ready to elevate your vegetable game with this mouthwatering recipe!
Key Ingredients For Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose firm, bright green broccoli heads for the best flavor and texture.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Hazelnuts: Opt for roasted hazelnuts to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the romesco.
- Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and depth to the romesco sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch that elevates the overall taste.
- Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne adds just the right amount of heat to balance the flavors.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient contributes acidity and brightness to the romesco sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect char on your broccoli.
Second Step: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and cut the broccoli into florets. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for even cooking.
Third Step: Roast the Broccoli
Spread the seasoned broccoli florets on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender and have nice charred spots.
Fourth Step: Make the Romesco Sauce
While the broccoli roasts, prepare your romesco sauce. In a food processor, combine toasted hazelnuts, roasted red bell pepper, garlic, cayenne pepper, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Fifth Step: Combine and Serve
Once the broccoli is nicely charred, remove it from the oven. Drizzle some hazelnut romesco sauce over the top. Toss gently to combine everything.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional romesco for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and texture than older ones.
- Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit cayenne pepper in your romesco sauce.
- Experiment with Nuts: Try substituting hazelnuts with almonds or pine nuts for different flavor profiles.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare romesco sauce in advance; it keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Now you’re all set to create this delightful charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco! Enjoy every bite as you savor its unique flavors and textures.
Cooking Method
To prepare Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco, start by preheating your grill or oven to a high temperature. This high heat is essential for achieving that delicious char on the broccoli. Cut the broccoli into florets, ensuring they are similar in size for even cooking. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor.
Place the florets directly on the grill or in a roasting pan if using an oven. Grill or roast the broccoli for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until you see beautiful char marks and the florets become tender yet crisp. The smokiness adds depth to the dish.
While the broccoli cooks, prepare the hazelnut romesco. Start by toasting whole hazelnuts until golden brown and fragrant. Then, blend these with roasted red peppers, garlic, smoked paprika, and a splash of red wine vinegar until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Once both components are ready, combine them on a serving platter for a striking presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish for a wholesome meal. The nutty romesco sauce complements various proteins beautifully.
This dish also shines at gatherings and potlucks. Its vibrant colors and textures make it a standout option on any buffet table. For vegetarian or vegan guests, it serves as an excellent main dish when paired with grains like quinoa or farro.
Consider garnishing with extra chopped hazelnuts and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to elevate the presentation further. The additional crunch enhances both flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
Charred broccoli is packed with vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health. These nutrients support immune function and digestive health while promoting skin wellness.
Hazelnuts offer healthy fats along with vitamin E, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. When combined in this recipe, you get a nutritious powerhouse that satisfies hunger without compromising health goals.
This dish is not only delicious but also enhances your dietary intake of essential nutrients while keeping calories in check. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Storage Tips
To store leftover Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days to enjoy later.
If you want to freeze it for longer storage, consider freezing the broccoli separately from the romesco sauce. The broccoli can last up to three months in the freezer when stored properly. However, keep in mind that reheating may change its texture slightly.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh herbs or an extra drizzle of olive oil before serving again for added flavor.
FAQs
What are some variations of Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco?
You can customize Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco by adding different vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for variety. Additionally, consider swapping hazelnuts for other nuts like almonds or walnuts if desired; each will impart its unique flavor profile to the romesco sauce.
You may also experiment with spices according to your preferences; try adding chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness in your romesco sauce. These variations ensure you never grow tired of this delightful recipe!
Can I make Hazelnut Romesco ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Hazelnut Romesco ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Making it ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
If you plan on making a larger batch, you can freeze portions of romesco sauce as well! Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before using it again; this makes meal prep incredibly convenient while still enjoying homemade goodness.
Is Charred Broccoli suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco is perfect for meal prep because it holds up well throughout the week when stored properly. You can easily pack portions into containers alongside grains like rice or quinoa for balanced meals throughout busy weekdays.
Just remember that while reheating may change texture slightly due to moisture loss during storage, drizzling extra olive oil before serving will help rejuvenate both taste and texture!
What dishes pair well with Charred Broccoli?
Charred Broccoli pairs excellently with grilled chicken or fish dishes due to its robust flavors complementing lighter proteins perfectly! For vegetarian options, serve alongside hearty grains like couscous or bulgur wheat—these combinations create balanced plates full of diverse textures and tastes.
It also makes an impressive addition at gatherings; consider serving this dish alongside other roasted vegetables or dips so everyone has something satisfying during their meal experience together! Your guests will surely appreciate such thoughtful pairings!
Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of charred broccoli paired with a creamy hazelnut romesco sauce. This dish brings together smoky, earthy notes with a delightful nutty crunch, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed as a side at your next barbecue or as an elegant appetizer, this nutrient-rich recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup roasted hazelnuts
- 1 medium red bell pepper, roasted
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the broccoli florets in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
- Spread the broccoli evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and charred.
- While roasting, blend hazelnuts, roasted red bell pepper, garlic, cayenne pepper, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
- Once the broccoli is ready, drizzle the romesco sauce over it, toss gently, and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. To reduce spiciness, adjust cayenne pepper according to your preference. The romesco sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to one week.
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