Description
This easy Italian-style sautéed broccoli rabe with garlic is a quick and healthy side dish that’s full of flavor. Tender, slightly bitter broccoli rabe is cooked with aromatic garlic, a touch of red pepper flakes, and finished with extra virgin olive oil—perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe (rapini)
Aromatics
- 5 cloves garlic, minced or sliced
Liquids
- 1/4 cup water
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for finishing)
Instructions
- Prep the Broccoli Rabe: Trim the bottom 1/2 inch of the broccoli rabe stems to remove any tough ends. Rinse the bunch thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt or grit, then set aside to drain.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat, add the minced or sliced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden; if omitting oil, use a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
- Add the Broccoli Rabe & Steam: Add the broccoli rabe to the skillet along with 1/4 cup water. Cover the pan and increase heat to medium-high. Let it steam and cook until the leaves turn bright green and stems begin to tenderize, about 3–4 minutes.
- Season and Finish Cooking: Remove the lid, sprinkle in the salt and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook uncovered for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water evaporates and the broccoli rabe is just tender.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil as a finishing touch (if desired) and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, briefly blanch the broccoli rabe before sautéing to reduce its natural bitterness.
- Drizzle the olive oil right before serving for a fresh, fruity taste.
- This dish is delicious hot or at room temperature.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for a zesty finish.
- For a fully oil-free version, skip the finishing olive oil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side-dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg