Stovetop Caramelized Romanesco

stovetop caramelized romanesco
Stovetop caramelized romanesco tastes like it was slow roasted in the oven, but is ready in minutes
stovetop caramelized romanesco
You can substitute another cruciferous veggie like broccoli or cauliflower

For more on romanesco, see my pasta dish here https://tinamarinaccio.com/romanesco-pasta-with-baby-bella-mushrooms-and-roasted-garlic/

Stovetop Caramelized Romanesco

Probably one of the most visually stunning veggies I have ever encountered. Check out the spiralized minarets. It's almost a shame to cut it. It makes a great kitchen table centerpiece.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 head of romanesco cut into florets
  • 1 tbsp good vegetable oil
  • 1 head of garlic peeled
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tbsp good balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp maguey sweet sap or good maple syrup
  • Sea salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large sauté pan, sauté romanesco and garlic cloves in oil over medium heat until garlic begins to brown, about 3-4 minutes
  2. Add water, cover, and steam over medium heat until water absorbs, about 5 minutes
  3. Romanesco will begin to soften, but will still be crisp
  4. Stir in balsamic, maguey, and salt, tossing Romanesco to coat evenly
  5. Simmer uncovered until all liquid is absorbed and romanesco caramelizes, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes

Recipe Notes

You can substitute another cruciferous veggie like cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts

 

Get Recipes in Your Inbox

Like this one? Subscribe to get fresh, healthy recipes from Tina — no spam, just good food.

I'm Tina Marinaccio, a NJ-based Registered Dietitian.

My mission is to empower individuals to nourish their bodies with balanced, flavorful meals that support health, wellness, and an active lifestyle.

Get Recipes in Your Inbox

Like this one? Subscribe to get fresh, healthy recipes from Tina — no spam, just good food.

Recent Posts

Categories

Tina Marinaccio, MS, RDN, CPT, is a Licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Personal Trainer based in Denville, New Jersey. With more than 25 years of experience in nutrition counseling, personal training, cooking instruction, and public speaking, she helps individuals build sustainable, healthy lifestyles through practical, evidence-based nutrition.

Tina earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University and has completed advanced training in functional medicine and nutrition. Throughout her career, she has served in leadership roles within hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and the nutrition industry, and has been featured in leading media outlets including Men’s Health, Yahoo, Fox News, AARP, ParadeThe New York Post, MyFitnessPal, Today’s DietitianEat This, Not That!, GoodRx, and Healthline. She is passionate about helping people improve their health through realistic nutrition strategies that fit everyday life.

Download My Free Anti-Inflammatory Diet Cheat Sheet (with Recipes)

Science-backed tips to reduce inflammation and feel your best — starting today.