Broccolini with Crispy Lemon Crumbs

Ingredients

• 2 slices of white bread, torn

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

• Salt

• 2 bunches Broccolini (8 ounces each), ends trimmed

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 small shallot, very finely chopped

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

• In a food processor, pulse the white bread until large crumbs form. In a large skillet, melt the butter. Add the bread crumbs and cook them over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until golden. Remove from the heat. Stir in the crushed red pepper and lemon zest and season with salt. Transfer the crumbs to a plate to cool. Wipe out the skillet.

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Broccolini and cook until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Drain well, shaking off the excess water; pat dry.

• In the large skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the shallot and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Add the Broccolini, season lightly with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the Broccolini is lightly browned in spots, about 4 minutes. Transfer the Broccolini to a serving platter and sprinkle the lemony breadcrumbs on top. Serve right away with lemon wedges.

Make Ahead

The lemon crumbs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.