Easy Roasted Broccolini with Creamy Tahini Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a simple vegetable side that transforms humble ingredients into something vibrant and delicious. Roasted Broccolini with Tahini Sauce is exactly that—a recipe that’s quick, effortless, and packed with flavor. If you’re looking for easy weeknight dinners that feel like healthy comfort food, this dish ticks all the boxes. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken to grain bowls. Plus, it fits perfectly into budget-friendly recipes and meal prep microwave lunches, making it a versatile addition to your healthy meal plans for two or family-sized dinners.

The bright green broccolini roasts until tender and slightly crispy at the edges, while the tahini sauce adds a nutty, creamy punch with a fresh, citrusy zing. Whether you’re following a keto meal plan or just trying to eat more veggies in an easy, delicious way, this recipe is a total winner. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this flavorful side your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want something nourishing without a lot of fuss. The tahini sauce brings that silky texture and garlicky richness that takes roasted veggies to the next level, turning broccolini into a star on your plate.

It’s also wonderfully adaptable. You can customize the garnishes and spices to suit your mood or the meal you’re serving it with, whether it’s a light vegetarian dinner or a high protein meal with grilled meat. Because it stores well and reheats beautifully, it’s a great choice for prepared meals for two or anyone interested in best meal prep plans that actually taste fresh.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Roasting broccolini brings out its natural sweetness and gives it those irresistibly crispy tips. Unlike steaming or boiling, roasting keeps the texture lively and the flavor robust. The creamy tahini sauce is made with simple ingredients but adds a complex, nutty layer with just a hint of lemon and garlic. This balance of textures and tastes makes the dish both comforting and exciting.

The nutty tahini sauce also fits beautifully into healthy eating for two and protein eating plans when paired with a good source of protein. If you’re after high protein keto meal plan options or low calorie high nutrition meals, this dish fits in perfectly, providing nutrients without heaviness.

Ingredients

• 300g broccolini, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2–3 teaspoons water (to thin sauce as needed)
• Optional garnishes: chili flakes, chopped parsley, sesame seeds

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things easy and clean.

Toss the trimmed broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, making sure every stalk is well coated.

Spread the broccolini out evenly on the baking sheet. Roast for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through so the broccolini cooks evenly and develops those delicious crispy edges.

While the broccolini roasts, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and enough water to create a smooth, pourable sauce. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.

Once the broccolini is tender and slightly charred, transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle generously with the tahini sauce.

Finish with a sprinkle of chili flakes, fresh parsley, or sesame seeds for that extra flavor and crunch.

Serve warm or at room temperature—both ways are equally delicious.

Tips for Best Results

For the crispiest broccolini, don’t overcrowd the pan. Spread the stalks out so they have room to roast evenly.

Adjust the tahini sauce consistency by adding water slowly. Too thick? Add a splash more water or lemon juice.

If you love bold flavors, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cumin to your tahini sauce for a warming twist.

Roast the broccolini until the tips just start to crisp and char, but avoid burning to keep the flavors balanced.

Make extra tahini sauce—you’ll want it for dipping or drizzling over other veggies later!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Don’t have broccolini? Regular broccoli works well too—just roast it a bit longer for tenderness.

Swap tahini with almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.

Add za’atar or sumac to the garnishes for a true Middle Eastern flair.

Include toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for extra texture.

Use maple syrup or honey in the tahini sauce for a sweet-savory balance if you like.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Broccolini with Tahini Sauce is a perfect healthy boxed meal side or a vibrant addition to meals for 2 delivered.

Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or falafel for a balanced high macro meal.

Pair it with quinoa, brown rice, or couscous bowls to add freshness and texture.

Try it as part of a full English breakfast with eggs and tomatoes for a veggie boost.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced herbal tea.

A side of lemon roasted potatoes or warm pita bread complements the creamy tahini sauce beautifully.

Add a bright cucumber and tomato salad for extra crunch and color.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store roasted broccolini and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheat broccolini gently in a low oven or serve cold; the tahini sauce is best served fresh but can be thinned with a little water if it thickens.

Avoid microwaving sauce directly to keep its creamy texture intact.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Both broccolini and tahini sauce can be prepped ahead of time, making this a great best meal prep healthy option.

Freeze is not recommended as broccolini loses its crisp texture and tahini sauce can separate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the pan which causes steaming instead of roasting.

Not flipping broccolini halfway, leading to uneven cooking.

Skipping seasoning or under-salting the tahini sauce.

Adding too much water to the sauce, making it runny.

Roasting at too low a temperature, resulting in limp broccolini.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I grill the broccolini instead of roasting?
Yes! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor and char.

How do I keep tahini sauce from clumping?
Add water gradually while whisking to maintain a smooth texture.

Is this recipe vegan?
Absolutely—perfect for vegan meal prep plans.

Can I use frozen broccolini?
Fresh is best for roasting, but thawed frozen broccolini can work.

How spicy is this dish?
Mild by default; add chili flakes or harissa for heat.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats well and tastes great cold or at room temperature.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Roasted Broccolini with Tahini Sauce is a stunning, easy, and low calorie high nutrition meal that you’ll want to add to your recipe repertoire. Its perfect blend of textures and flavors fits beautifully into protein meal plans and healthy meal plans for two, making it a must-try for anyone wanting quick, wholesome, and tasty dishes.

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