Roasted Pak Choi with Lemon Butter Sauce, Almonds, and Parmesan

Introduction

Looking for a quick and healthy side dish that’s packed with flavor? This Roasted Pak Choi with Lemon Butter Sauce, Almonds, and Parmesan is exactly what you need! Pak choi, also known as bok choy, is a nutrient-dense vegetable that becomes tender and flavorful when roasted. This simple recipe highlights its natural sweetness while adding layers of richness with a zesty lemon-butter sauce, crunchy almonds, and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.

Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or elegant gatherings. The combination of roasted pak choi with the creamy and tangy dressing is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the toasted almonds add texture, while the Parmesan rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.

Whether you’re new to pak choi or looking for a fresh twist on a familiar vegetable, this recipe is a must-try. Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or let it shine as the star of your meal. Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing with roasted goodness? Let’s dive in!

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pak choi (cut into quarters)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 small bell pepper (thinly sliced into rings)
• 3 tbsp almonds (toasted and crushed)
• 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pak Choi: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Wash the pak choi thoroughly, then cut each one into quarters. Place them on a baking tray.
2. Season and Roast: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the pak choi and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 5 minutes until the edges are slightly charred.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and mix it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the juice of one lemon. Add the sliced bell pepper and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the Crunch and Cheese: Remove the roasted pak choi from the oven. Drizzle the lemon-butter sauce evenly over the pak choi. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy immediately as a warm, flavorful side dish.

Pro Tips

• Choose Fresh Pak Choi: Opt for fresh pak choi with firm stems and vibrant green leaves for the best results.
• Customize the Sauce: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or a teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness.
• Enhance Texture: Toast the almonds in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes to bring out their nutty flavor.
• Grilling Option: You can grill the pak choi instead of roasting for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this roasted pak choi as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu.
• Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a light and balanced meal.
• Add it to a Buddha bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and tahini dressing.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use baby pak choi instead of regular pak choi?
A: Yes! Baby pak choi works just as well and may require slightly less roasting time.

Q: What can I use instead of almonds?
A: You can substitute almonds with toasted walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
A: To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can roast the pak choi and prepare the sauce ahead, then assemble and heat before serving.

Conclusion

Roasted Pak Choi with Lemon Butter Sauce, Almonds, and Parmesan is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender roasted pak choi pairs beautifully with the tangy sauce, crunchy almonds, and savory Parmesan. Whether you're looking for a light side dish or a unique addition to your dinner table, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Easy to make, full of nutrients, and incredibly satisfying—this is a dish you'll want to make again and again.