If you’ve never tried grilling your broccoli, get ready for a total game-changer. This recipe turns that humble green veg into something smoky, crispy-edged, and totally addictive—especially with a lemon tahini drizzle that adds a creamy, citrusy kick! It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy but truly couldn’t be easier. Perfect for a weeknight veggie upgrade or a backyard dinner party side. Let’s light up the grill and turn up the flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One summer evening, I threw broccoli on the grill almost by accident—running out of space and desperate for another green veg—and my picky eaters were hooked before I even got to the table. Now it’s a staple, drizzled with a lemon tahini sauce that was born out of a need to keep things dairy-free and delicious. It’s a happy accident turned family favorite!
- Smoky, charred edges with tender bites inside
- Bright, zesty, creamy tahini sauce that’s completely dairy-free
- Prep-friendly—make the drizzle ahead!
- Great warm or room-temp, perfect for entertaining
- Vegan, gluten-free, and wildly satisfying
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 large head of broccoli (or two medium), cut into large florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced
- 2 to 3 tbsp water (to thin the sauce)
Pro Tips
- Choose broccoli with tight, dark green florets—no yellowing!
- For a smoother tahini sauce, whisk the tahini and lemon juice together before adding water.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a gentle heat in the drizzle.
- Try smoked salt on the broccoli post-grill for extra depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Place broccoli directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until edges are charred and florets are tender.
- While broccoli grills, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and 2 tbsp water. Add more water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a pourable consistency.
- Remove broccoli from grill and place on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with lemon tahini sauce.
- Serve immediately or let cool slightly—amazing both ways!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Cut florets large enough so they don’t fall through the grates.
- Use a grill pan if you’re worried about losing any precious broccoli.
- Make the tahini drizzle up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge—it only gets better.
- If your tahini has separated, stir well before using or warm gently to loosen it up.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped parsley before serving for texture and color.
- Stir a spoon of plain yogurt into the tahini for a creamier (non-vegan) version.
- Use cauliflower instead of broccoli—same technique, equally delicious.
- Serve over a bed of quinoa or rice for a hearty, plant-based meal.
- Top with spiced chickpeas or crushed pistachios for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this without a grill?
Absolutely! Roast the broccoli in a 425°F oven for 20–25 minutes. You’ll still get those crispy, charred edges.
How long does the tahini drizzle last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it keeps for up to 5 days and makes a great dip or grain bowl topping.
What can I substitute for tahini?
Sunflower seed butter or cashew butter works in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different. Just be sure to add lemon juice to keep that zingy balance!
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2–3 tbsp water
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill 8–10 minutes.
- Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth.
- Drizzle sauce over grilled broccoli and serve.
Nutrition: 120 calories per serving
If you try this Grilled Broccoli with Lemon Tahini Drizzle, I’d LOVE to hear what you think! Drop a comment below, tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid, or share it with a friend who needs a veggie game-changer. ❤️
