I buy BROCCOLI RABE when it's on sale, then BLANCH and FREEZE it so it's ready to go in just a few minutes when I need it. It's one of the few veggies you can freeze and have perfect every time results with.
Picture this, Sicily 1959... Thats how the little old lady on the Golden Girls started all her stories. This picture speaks volumes about this classic Italian side dish. This dish is quick, healthy and oh so tasty, whether served alone or tossed in with some pasta.
You'll need:
1 bunch of broccoli rabe
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
5 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed with the heel of your hand (or a frying pan)
3/4 teaspoon salt
Pepper to taste or...1 small hot red pepper (which you can omit if you so choose)
Cut the bottoms of the broccoli stems off
Chop the broccoli roughly, by that I mean cut the bunch in half
In a colander, rinse the broccoli
Place washed broccoli in a pot of rapidly boiling water for 90 seconds
Remove from water and place in colander to drain.
If you are going to freeze them for another day, simply:
1. Run cold water over them for a minute or so, ice bath not necessary, that's for TV cooks.
2. Put the blanched broccoli in a Ziploc gallon bag and toss it in the freezer for another day.
When you are ready to serve them:
3. Take out of the freezer and run under warm water for a few minutes til defrosted.
4. Continue with the recipe below.
If you are going to cook them today, continue here:
Warm a large skillet
Add olive oil, pepper (or the crushed flakes) and the garlic and cook garlic on medium heat until golden
Add broccoli and cover for just a minute (so it the oil doesn't splatter all over the place)
After a minute, remove lid and add salt and pepper
Toss well and let broccoli cook for just a few minutes...3 or 4 minutes to be precise
Serve with bread or over pasta...I will do that pasta recipe this week
Note: I peel and smash my garlic instead of chopping it so you can easily see it and take it out of your dish if you so choose. With 4 kids, someone is bound to not like something.
Have you lid ready when you add the broccoli to the pan. If your quick, you wont have to clean your stove tonight :)
Serves 5 as a side dish
Total time: 15 minutes
I LOVE broccoli rabe! Can't wait to try this.
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