If you're looking to elevate your dinner table with a vibrant and nutritious dish, look no further than "Broccoli Rabe with Olive Oil and Garlic." This Italian classic is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful burst of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. With a quick prep time of just 5 minutes and a cooking time of only 10 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet side dish in no time! Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats or as a standalone treat, this recipe promises to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Ready to discover the secrets to perfecting this savory dish? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 bunches broccoli rabe
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- Salt and red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the broccoli rabe under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Trim approximately 1-2 inches from the bottom stems, which can be tough and woody.
- Pat the broccoli rabe completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure proper sautéing and prevent excess water from diluting the flavors.
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Blanch the broccoli rabe for 2-3 minutes to reduce bitterness and partially cook the vegetable.
- Immediately transfer the blanched broccoli rabe to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its bright green color. Drain thoroughly and pat dry again.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, being careful not to burn.
- Add the blanched broccoli rabe to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the garlic-infused olive oil. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Season with salt and red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste. Toss once more to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with additional extra virgin olive oil if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choosing the Right Broccoli Rabe: Look for fresh, vibrant green broccoli rabe with firm stems and no yellowing leaves. This ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Blanching: Blanching the broccoli rabe is crucial to reduce its natural bitterness and enhance its bright green color. Make sure to cool it in ice water immediately after blanching to stop the cooking process.
- Garlic Timing is Key: When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it. You want it to be fragrant and lightly golden, but not burnt, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish.
- Adjusting Heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference. A little heat can elevate the dish, but you can always start with a pinch and add more as needed.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle your finished dish with high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving. It adds richness and enhances the overall taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
