Italian Broccoli Rabe (Easy Rapini Recipe) (2024)

Published: Aug 25, 2023 · Modified: Nov 27, 2023

This Italian style broccoli rabe recipe makes a delicious side dish. So simple to make! Sautéed in good extra-virgin olive oil,garlic, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. We'll teach you the secret to cook them up less bitter!

Why you'll love Italian style garlicky broccoli rapini

• Truly delicious and healthy: Broccoli rabe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients and fiber, making it a true superfood.
• Versatile recipe: Whether paired with chicken, pasta, beef, or even in sandwiches, this versatile dish is a delightful addition to any dinner table, bringing a burst of vibrant greens.
• Garlic and spice: The combination of garlic and red pepper flakes complements the natural flavors of the broccoli, adding a subtle touch of warmth spice without overpowering its taste. Cooked our way, you'll be making this every week!

What is broccoli rabe?

Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a green cruciferous vegetable. The name may be a bit misleading as it's not actually a type of broccoli. It is, however, part of the Brassicaceae family which includes vegetables such as turnips and mustard greens. Broccoli rabe has a unique flavor that's described as nutty, bitter, and pungent.

It is a popular ingredient in Italian and Chinese dishes, and can be sautéed, grilled, or used in soups and pasta. Not only is it flavorful, but it's also packed with nutrients, including Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and calcium.

Unless you grew up in an Italian family or had Italian neighbors, you maybe have never even dreamed of touching broccoli rabe. They have a bad reputation for being bitter. So you may love them from having had them cooked the right way or you really don't like them, from having only had them cooked up very bitter. I mean, really...who likes a bitter green vegetable? Although there may be some of you that do like a bitter vegetable.

I grew up eating them most of my life cooked the Sicilian way in my Sicilian family, which is pretty much how my Calabrese in-laws ended up cooking them. Lucky for me, my in-laws in Italy grow broccoli rabe in their abundant garden. And I have to tell you, they are the sweetest rapini I've ever tasted. Very different in flavor compared to the rapini you buy in the States.

My suocera (mother-in-law) does not have to do the first step of cooking them to remove the bitterness. When I first saw her cooking them I asked her why she wasn't blanching them in salted water and she looked at me like I was crazy to ask such a silly question. She didn't even answer me. She just kept on cooking them and as soon as I took the first bite, I realized what we have in the States does not compare in flavor at all to Italian rapini.

Have you ever wondered how to cook broccoli rabe? This Italian-Style Garlicky Broccoli Rabe recipe is the best way to make it less bitter. The combination of olive oil, garlic, cheese and crushed red pepper will provide you with the best rapini recipe aka sauteed broccoli rabe.

While not as popular as broccoli or kale, rapini should certainly be included in your rotation of green vegetables. This easy-to-prepare broccoli rabe recipe will add a vibrant touch to your dinner table and pairs perfectly with a variety of pasta dishes or Italian main courses.

What ingredients are in garlicky broccoli rabe?

Just pass by your local farmer's market and grab some rapini! You probably have the rest of ingredients on hand to get this recipe started!

• Broccoli rabe: A vibrant and nutritious green vegetable known for its slightly bitter flavor and tender stems.
• Extra virgin olive oil: A high-quality oil that adds a rich and savory taste while providing health benefits.
• Garlic: A versatile ingredient that enhances the flavors with its aromatic and pungent taste.
• Sea salt: A natural salt that enhances the overall taste of the dish, adding a touch of salinity.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle heat and a hint of spiciness to elevate the flavors. If making for the kids, leave it out (unless they like it spicy!).

How to cut and cook broccoli rabe?

Full printable recipe is below.

• Use a sharp knife to trim off the tough ends of the broccoli rabe.
• Cut the trimmed broccoli rabeinto 1-2-inch pieces.
• Rinsein colander very well with cold water and then drain.

How to cook broccoli rabe?

• Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat.
• Add in the garlic and as soon as it's aromatic, add in the broccoli rabe. An option is to remove the garlic and add back in at the end.
• Cook for about 5 to 10 minutes— stirring every few minutes — test with a fork to check tenderness.
• Check seasonings, and add a bit more salt and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Drizzle on a little extra-virgin olive oil before serving, if you like. If you removed the garlic, add back in before serving.
• Serve hotwith as a side dish. It is perfect with crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!

FAQ's

Expert tips to make the perfect broccoli rabe

• Make it crunchy: Toss in some pine nuts, or almond slivers. Whichever one you choose to use will change the flavor a little bit of the recipe.
• Make it citrusy: Add a burst of citrus with some freshly squeezed lemon juice and even some lemon zest. Brightens it up and goes very nicely with the garlic. Or even a dash of Balsamic vinegar. Add it on towards the end of cooking and it will make a decadent glaze.
• Make it cheesy: Grate on some Parmigiano-Reggiano or even some pecorino before serving.

Variations and substitutions for this sautéed broccoli rabe

• For a milder flavor, be sure to blanch the broccoli rabe before sautéing it.
• For a cheesy version, you can add on some grated Parmigiano-Reggiano just before serving.
• For added protein, you can toss in some cooked chickpeas or white beans.
• To make it a complete meal, serve the broccoli rabe over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
• If you don't have red chili flakes, you can use a dash of hot sauce or omit it altogether.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize to your taste.

How to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to a few days. Otherwise, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in a skillet (or your microwave). Be sure to thaw out overnight in the fridge if they're frozen.

Some other broccoli recipes to enjoy:

• Easy Pasta with Rapini Recipe
• Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Sauce
• Farfalle con Broccoli Rapini ed Asiago-Farfalle with Broccoli Rabe and Asiago Cheese
• Whole30 Broccoli Salad

Did you make this? Please RATE THE RECIPE below:)

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