Organic Lemon Parmesan Broccolini

Broccolini, a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, a leafy vegetable, has a slightly milder flavor compared to the broccoli most of us are used to. When steamed and brightened up with lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, it’s delightful to the taste buds. This is an easy recipe to prepare and it’s so good that it may just become your new favorite!

2
2 bunches organic broccolini, rinsed and ends trimmed, cut larger pieces in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking
2 tablespoons Natural Grocers® Brand Organic Plant Based Buttery Spread
1 heaping teaspoon organic lemon zest
1-2 tablespoons organic lemon juice, from half a medium lemon
Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Real Salt and Organic Ground Black Pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons Natural Grocers Brand Organic Parmesan Cheese Shreds

1. Add about an inch of water to a pot for a steamer basket and place the pot on the burner over medium-high heat. Bring the water to a boil. Add the broccolini to the steamer basket and carefully place in the pot. Cover and steam for 7-10 minutes, or until slightly crisp, but the stems are tender enough to pierce with a fork.  

2. Once done, remove from heat. Use potholders to carefully remove the steamer basket and set aside.

3. Strain the water from the pot and add the buttery spread and lemon juice to the pot and stir until melted and well combined. Return to low heat for a minute or two to melt the butter if necessary. Once the butter is melted turn the heat off.

4. Add the broccolini to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and use tongs to gently toss to coat the broccolini in the butter-lemon sauce.

5. Sprinkle the lemon zest and Parmesan cheese shreds over the top, toss again, and transfer the broccolini to a serving platter. Serve immediately