Are you a fan of hearty, flavorful dishes that showcase the versatility of leafy greens? Look no further! Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a delicious and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of recipes. With its slightly bitter taste and tender stems, broccoli rabe pairs perfectly with rich meats, creamy sauces, and tangy cheeses.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering broccoli rabe recipes that cater to every palate. From classic pasta dishes to innovative sandwiches and soups, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Read on to discover some of our favorite ways to prepare this tasty green…
Garlic and Olive Oil Sautéed Broccoli Rabe
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the pungency of garlic with the nutty taste of olive oil, all wrapped up in a deliciously tender broccoli rabe.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe (about 1 pound), cleaned and drained
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the broccoli rabe under cold water, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli rabe is tender but still crisp.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli Rabe with Spicy Italian Sausage
A classic Italian combination that’s both flavorful and nutritious. This recipe pairs spicy Italian sausage with the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
– 2 bunches broccoli rabe (about 4 cups)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, garlic, and broccoli rabe. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until slightly tender.
4. Add cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli rabe is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon and Parmesan Broccoli Rabe Pasta
A bright and citrusy pasta dish that showcases the unique flavor of broccoli rabe, paired with a tangy lemon sauce and a sprinkle of nutty parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli rabe to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the lemon-broccoli sauce.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and White Bean Soup
This Italian-inspired soup combines the earthy flavors of broccoli rabe with creamy cannellini beans, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe (about 2 cups)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the broccoli rabe and remove any tough stems.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the broccoli rabe, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the greens are tender.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Broccoli Rabe with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli rabe, while a rich balsamic glaze adds a tangy depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the broccoli rabe, removing any tough or woody stems. Cut into florets.
3. In a bowl, toss broccoli rabe with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread broccoli rabe on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until glaze thickens (about 5 minutes).
6. Remove broccoli rabe from the oven and drizzle with the balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of broccoli rabe with the richness of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli rabe with salt and pepper until tender. Set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and top with sautéed broccoli rabe.
6. Place shells in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Burrata Panini
This panini combines the earthy sweetness of broccoli rabe with the creamy richness of burrata cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 leaves of broccoli rabe
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of baguette
– Optional: garlic aioli or lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli rabe and cook until slightly caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Assemble the paninis by spreading burrata cheese on each slice of baguette, followed by a few leaves of cooked broccoli rabe.
4. Place the paninis in the press or grill for about 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli Rabe Pesto with Toasted Pine Nuts
Elevate your pasta dishes or sandwiches with this vibrant and flavorful pesto made with broccoli rabe, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine broccoli rabe, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes)
Yield: About 1 cup of pesto
Broccoli Rabe and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic potato hash, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the pungent flavor of broccoli rabe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add broccoli rabe and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, toss with cooked broccoli rabe and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using cheese, crumble on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Broccoli Rabe Quiche with Gruyère Cheese
A savory and delicious quiche perfect for brunch or dinner, this Broccoli Rabe Quiche with Gruyère Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic French dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped broccoli rabe with a pinch of salt until tender. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and a pinch of salt.
5. Arrange the cooked broccoli rabe evenly in the pie crust.
6. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese over the broccoli rabe.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Chorizo Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful combination of crispy chorizo, sautéed broccoli rabe, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe (rapini), cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chorizo, casings removed and crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (3 minutes).
2. Add broccoli rabe and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chorizo, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, breaking up chorizo with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the broccoli rabe and chorizo mixture onto tortillas and topping with desired fixings.
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Creamy Broccoli Rabe and Mushroom Risotto
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and broccoli rabe with the richness of creamy risotto, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli rabe, garlic, and 2 cups broth. Simmer for 5 minutes or until greens are tender.
4. In a separate pot, bring remaining broth to a simmer. Whisk in Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
5. Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and cooked mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Cannellini Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy flavor of broccoli rabe with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe (about 1 pound), cleaned and chopped
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped broccoli rabe and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli rabe mixture, cannellini beans, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Toss to combine and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Sun-Dried Tomato Frittata
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful frittata featuring the earthy taste of broccoli rabe and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped broccoli rabe and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables in the skillet.
6. Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the eggs.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Caramelized Onion Pizza
This savory pizza combines the earthy flavors of broccoli rabe with the sweet and tangy caramelized onions, all on a crispy crust. Perfect for a unique dinner or impressive party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups broccoli rabe (blanched and chopped)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a pan, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Spread caramelized onions and chopped broccoli rabe on the dough, leaving a small border.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly.
6. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Savor the bold flavors of Italy with this delectable pasta dish, combining succulent shrimp with the pungency of broccoli rabe and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add broccoli rabe to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp-broccoli mixture, and reserved pasta water (if using). Toss to combine, adjusting seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Gorgonzola Flatbread
This flatbread combines the earthy sweetness of broccoli rabe with the tanginess of gorgonzola cheese, all on a crispy pizza crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli rabe and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Spread cooked broccoli rabe on one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle crumbled gorgonzola cheese over the broccoli rabe.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Toasted Walnut Farro Bowl
This hearty bowl combines the earthy flavors of farro with the pungency of broccoli rabe, all tied together with toasted walnuts. A perfect side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli rabe and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
4. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, broccoli rabe mixture, and toasted walnuts.
6. Squeeze with lemon juice and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
The perfect way to enjoy broccoli rabe, these 18 delicious recipes cater to every palate. From classic pairings like garlic and olive oil sautéed broccoli rabe to creative combinations like roasted broccoli rabe with balsamic glaze, there’s something for everyone. Try it in pasta dishes like lemon and parmesan broccoli rabe pasta or as a topping for pizza like broccoli rabe and caramelized onion. Or go bold with recipes like broccoli rabe and chorizo tacos or creamy broccoli rabe and mushroom risotto. Get cooking and discover the versatility of this tasty green!
