
Broccolini and Garlic with Calabrian Chile Vinaigrette
Equally good served hot or at room temperature, this simple yet flavorful side is perfect for easy, breezy summer entertaining. If you don’t have a large steamer basket, steam the broccolini in two batches. If preparing in advance, make the vinaigrette and steam the broccolini up to a day ahead and keep separate. Toss the broccolini with the vinaigrette and finish as directed below right before serving.
Ingredients:
For the vinaigrette:
- 1 Tbs. Calabrian chiles in oil, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 small lemon
- 1 Tbs. wildflower honey
- 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
10 garlic cloves, peeled and halved lengthwise- 1 lb. (500 g) broccolini, trimmed
- Kosher salt
Directions:
To make the vinaigrette, in a bowl, combine the Calabrian chiles, lemon juice, honey and olive oil. Whisk until the vinaigrette is emulsified. Season with salt and set aside.
Fill a large, wide pot with 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water. Place a large steamer basket in the pot and cover the pot with a lid. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once the water comes to a boil, turn the heat to medium-low.
Remove the lid and add the garlic cloves to the steamer basket. Cover and steam the garlic for 6 minutes. Carefully remove the lid and, using tongs, quickly place the broccolini in the steamer basket. Cover and steam until the broccolini is a vibrant green and both the broccolini and garlic cloves are tender, about 4 minutes.
Transfer the broccolini and garlic to a large bowl and season lightly with salt. Add the vinaigrette and, using tongs, gently toss until the broccolini and garlic are evenly coated.
To serve the dish cold: Transfer the broccolini and garlic to a serving platter and top with any remaining vinaigrette from the mixing bowl.
To serve the dish hot: Position a rack in the top third of the oven and preheat the broiler on high heat. Transfer the broccolini mixture to a baking sheet. Broil until the broccolini is slightly charred, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and top with any remaining vinaigrette from the baking sheet. Serves 4.
Williams Sonoma Test Kitchen