Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 lb); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided); 1/2 cup roasted hazelnuts; 1 medium red bell pepper (roasted); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; Salt to taste

Published: November 18, 2025

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco is simple yet impressive, making meal prep feel like a gourmet experience
The combination of flavors is a delightful surprise for your taste buds
Its vibrant colors create an eye-catching dish that will steal the spotlight on any table
Perfect as a side dish or a standalone treat, it adapts beautifully to various meals

I’ve made this for countless gatherings, and each time it gets rave reviews and requests for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Broccoli Florets: Choose fresh florets that are bright green; they should feel firm and have no yellowing.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor; it enhances the dish wonderfully.
Hazelnuts: Opt for roasted hazelnuts to save time; their nutty flavor adds depth to the romesco sauce.
Red Bell Pepper: A sweet red bell pepper is essential; it balances the earthy tones of the nuts.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings warmth and aromatic charm; choose plump cloves for maximum flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; just a pinch packs a flavorful punch!
Red Wine Vinegar: This acidity brightens up the romesco sauce beautifully; don’t skip it!
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds depth and complexity; it’s like giving your taste buds a warm hug.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco

How to Make Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing your broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel to ensure they roast nicely without steaming.

Make the Romesco Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine roasted hazelnuts, red bell pepper, garlic cloves, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and red wine vinegar. Blend until smooth while drizzling in olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.

Char the Broccoli: Preheat your grill or oven broiler. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil and season generously with salt before placing them on the grill or broiler pan.

Grill Until Tender and Charred: Grill or broil the broccoli for about 8-10 minutes until tender and slightly charred. You want those delicious caramelized edges that provide both texture and flavor.

Serve with Romesco Sauce: Once done, remove broccoli from heat and let cool slightly before plating. Drizzle generously with hazelnut romesco sauce; feel free to add more nuts on top if you’re feeling fancy!

This charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco is not just another veggie side—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold on your plate. Each bite offers crispy textures balanced by creamy sauce goodness that will leave you craving more!

You Must Know

Charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco offers a delightful crunch and rich flavor
This dish impresses both visually and on the palate, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in
Its smoky essence brings out the best in every bite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the broccoli at a high temperature to achieve that irresistible char. While it’s roasting, blend the romesco sauce for seamless preparation.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different nuts in your romesco, or add spices like smoked paprika for extra depth. You can even toss in some feta cheese for a creamy twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve that lovely charred texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect charred broccoli, make sure to dry it thoroughly before roasting
This prevents steaming and enhances crispiness
Always taste your romesco sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can elevate its flavor significantly
Finally, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop!

I remember the first time I made charred broccoli with hazelnut romesco for friends. Their faces lit up when they tasted it, and I felt like a culinary rockstar!

FAQ

What is hazelnut romesco?

Hazelnut romesco is a nutty sauce made with roasted peppers, garlic, and olive oil.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Cauliflower and Brussels sprouts work wonderfully with this romesco sauce too.

How do I know when my broccoli is done?

Look for deep browning on the edges; this indicates perfect charring while keeping it tender inside.