Charred Lemon Garlic Broccoli with Pine Nuts | Kevin Wagonfoot
Listen, I used to be the guy who thought broccoli was punishment masquerading as a vegetable. Then I discovered that a screaming hot pan and a little char could turn it into something I actually wanted to eat. Add some garlic, pine nuts, and lemon, and suddenly I’m the person sneaking extra servings onto my plate.
This dish proved to me that low-carb eating doesn’t have to mean sad, boring food. It’s the kind of side that makes you feel like you’re doing something right without having to think too hard about it.
Why This Works for Low-Carb High-Protein
For me, this recipe hits all the marks of a solid low-carb, high-protein meal foundation. The broccoli keeps carbs minimal while delivering fiber, the pine nuts bring healthy fats and a protein boost, and if you pair it with a good protein source, you’ve got yourself a balanced plate. It’s the kind of side that doesn’t fight against your goals—it actually supports them, one charred floret at a time.
From the cookbook
Low Carb High Protein Meal Prep Cookbook for Beginners
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Charred Lemon Garlic Broccoli with Pine Nuts
Charred Lemon Garlic Broccoli with Pine Nuts is a vibrant, healthy side dish that perfectly complements any protein. The charred flavor of the broccoli combined with the zesty lemon and crunchy pine n
Ingredients
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the broccoli on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
- Remove broccoli from the grill and transfer to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest over the top.
- Add toasted pine nuts and toss gently to combine.
- Serve warm or allow to cool for meal prep.
Nutrition per serving
All recipes serve 2. All nutritional info is per serving.
Tips & Variations
- Don't be shy with the heat. I use medium-high to high, and I let the broccoli sit undisturbed for a couple minutes so it actually chars instead of just steaming.
- Toast your pine nuts in a dry pan for a minute or two before tossing them in. Trust me on this one—it wakes them up.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice right at the end, not before cooking. It keeps that brightness and prevents the broccoli from getting soggy.
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