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Sauteed Rapini (Broccoli Rabe) with Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Sauteed Rapini (Broccoli Rabe) recipe delivers a quick, flavorful side dish featuring tender, slightly bitter rapini blanched and then sauteed with garlic and a touch of red pepper flakes. Perfectly crisp-tender and infused with aromatic olive oil and garlic, this dish complements a variety of main courses and takes just 25 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 pound broccoli rabe/rapini (usually 1 bunch)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (thinly sliced or minced)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Wash Rapini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, wash the broccoli rabe thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
  2. Cut and Blanch Rapini: Cut the broccoli rabe into 2- to 3-inch pieces. Once the water is boiling, add the pieces and blanch for 60 seconds, no longer than 90 seconds. Immediately drain the rapini in a colander to stop the cooking process. Blanching helps reduce bitterness while preserving texture.
  3. Sauté Garlic: Warm the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced or minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently for about one minute, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  4. Add Red Pepper Flakes and Rapini: Stir in the red pepper flakes followed immediately by the blanched broccoli rabe. Toss to combine everything evenly.
  5. Cook Until Crisp-Tender: Cook the rapini for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a crisp-tender texture. Season with salt and pepper if desired, though the combination of garlic and red pepper flakes adds plenty of flavor on its own.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the sauteed rapini warm as a delicious, healthy side dish.
  7. Optional Feedback: Consider leaving a rating or review, sharing your experience, tips, or variations.

Notes

  • Do not over-blanch the rapini; more than 90 seconds results in a mushy texture.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
  • Use fresh garlic and high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste, although optional based on personal preference.
  • Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://recipekind.com/sauteed-rapini-broccoli-rabe-with-garlic-and-red-pepper-flakes-recipe/