I love when a side dish steals the show and this Roasted Broccolini with Chili Crisp and Feta does exactly that. Perfectly spicy with pops of bright lemon, roasted broccolini gets the star treatment for date night dinner!
I have always loved an underdog story. Maybe a rags to riches type tale or a more unexpected heroine like an Erin Brockovich. And it is for this reason, I adore a side dish that is so good, so memorable, that it just steals the entire show completely. Ladies and gentlemen–I present the Erin Brockovich of broccolinis.
This roasted broccolini is so tasty, it’s practically irresistible. It’s simple, bold, and completely reliable. Roasting turns an every day vegetable like broccolini into something extra special as it becomes tender with crisp, caramelized edges. Things get a little spicy when the broccolini is then tossed with chili crisp. Add a splash of lemon and some creamy, salty feta and you have this stunning side.
This broccolini is modern without being trendy, and just interesting enough to hold its own alongside a classic main. It’s designed as part of my Elegant Date Night at Home Menu and is served along side a romantic Chicken with bacon in white wine sauce and then capped off with a sweet raspberry and lemon olive oil cake. This broccolini really brings the date night vibes because it feels restaurant worthy but is really hands off. The heat here is a bit sultry, which should add some excitement to date night!
Why This Roasted Broccolini Works So Well
-Roasting brings out deep, savory flavor of the broccolini–so delicious even with just salt and pepper.
-Chili crisp adds heat and texture without overpowering.
-Feta softens and balances the spice. It also adds a little salty bite that pairs nicely with the bacon in my chicken main.
-It’s hands-off and forgiving so there will be no last-minute stress. The key to my date-night-loving heart.
Roasted Broccolini with Chili Crisp and Feta
Course: SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
1 1/2 lbs broccolini, trimmed
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp kosher salt
freshly ground black pepper
2-3 Tbsp chili crisp (depending on your taste for heat)
1/3 cup crumbled feta
1 lemon, zest and juice
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Prepare a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Place the broccolini on the sheet pan. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, toss the broccolini with the olive oil and then spread it into a single layer on the sheet pan. You want to make sure the stems aren’t overcrowded so that they roast, not steam.
- Roast for 15-18 minutes, flipping once. The broccolini should be tender with deep, brown edges when done.
- Spoon the chili crisp on top of the broccolini directly on the pan. Gently toss to coat. Allow the heat of the pan to warm up the chili oil.
- Transfer to a serving plate. Top with crumbled feta. Squeeze the lemon juice all over the broccolini and add a bit of zest, if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Serving Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature — both work beautifully.
- Keep the feta light so it complements rather than dominates
- For a relaxed, elegant look, sprinkle the feta over the top instead of mixing it in
Make Ahead tip
You can roast the broccolini a few hours ahead and reheat briefly in a hot oven. Add the chili crisp and feta just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Skip the Reservations: Serve Date Night at Home
This roasted broccolini is the stunning side dish for my Elegant Date Night at Home Menu. That can’t-miss menu also features an elegant chicken with bacon, shallots, and white wine sauce which is a true sultry stunner. And dessert is just right with a raspberry and lemon olive oil cake. Love that entire menu so much!
The Mid Century Modern Romantic is a home for romance, so you better believe I have lots of innovative date night recipe ideas! Check out more recipe inspiration here and come back for more date night menus!
