Forktionary

Broccoli Rabe

Brassica rapa subsp. rapa Leafy Green Vegetable

Broccoli Rabe Leafy Green Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Leafy Green Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"The assertive Italian green that adds a welcome bite to any dish."

Definition

A bitter, leafy green vegetable closely related to turnip, featuring small, broccoli-like florets, edible stems, and distinct mustard-like flavor.

Preparing Bitterness Blanching reduces it
Primary Culinary Use Italian & Mediterranean dishes
Vitamin K Content (per 100g) 118% DV

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Broccoli Rabe are:

Bitter Earthy Pungent Slightly Peppery

Chef’s Secret

To mellow its bitterness for broad appeal without losing character, blanch it briefly in salted water then shock in ice water *before* sautéing with garlic and oil.

Best Substitutes

Mustard Greens

Ratio 1:1

Escarole

Ratio 1:1

Broccolini

for texture, less bitter
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose vibrant green bunches with firm stems and tight florets; avoid yellowing leaves or wilting.

Culinary Pairings

Garlic chili flakes olive oil sausage pasta parmesan cheese lemon

Recipes Using Broccoli Rabe

Crack Lasagna image 121
Dinner Party Main Dish Poultry Meat

Crack Lasagna

Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Crack Lasagna is a family and friend favorite, earning its name from its irresistible taste that leaves everyone hooked. A rich blend of savory sausage, tender greens, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, baked to perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe will become your new go-to comfort food. Prepare to be amazed!

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Almond Crusted Salmon image
Low Carb Dietary Low Carb High In Something

Almond Crusted Salmon

Experience a taste sensation with this elegant Almond-Crusted Salmon recipe! Inspired by Cooking Light (October 2007), this dish features rich salmon fillets coated in a crunchy almond meal crust, delivering a delightful toasted flavor reminiscent of browned butter. The perfect weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes. Serve with vibrant broccoli rabe, creamy orzo pasta, and a crisp Pinot Noir for a complete culinary experience.

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