WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS Broiling broccoli rabe is a simple, superfast way to create deep caramelization, adding just a touch of contrasting sweetness to this bitter green vegetable. And it takes mere minutes, requiring nothing more than a rimmed baking sheet. To keep things streamlined, we skipped the usual blanching step and simply cut the tops (the leaves and florets) from the stalks, but did no further chopping. Toss the pieces with the garlicky oil and they’re ready for the oven.
Serves 4
TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound broccoli rabe, trimmed
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Lemon wedges
INSTRUCTIONS
- Adjust oven rack 4 inches from broiler element and preheat the broiler. Brush a rimmed baking sheet with 1 tablespoon oil.
- Cut the tops (leaves and florets) of broccoli rabe from stalks, keeping tops whole, then cut stalks into 1-inch pieces. Transfer to the prepared sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes. Pour the oil mixture over the broccoli rabe and toss to combine.
- Broil until the exposed half of the leaves are well browned, 2 to 2½ minutes. Using tongs, toss to expose unbrowned leaves. Return sheet to oven and continue to broil until most leaves are lightly charred and stalks are crisp-tender, 2 to 2½ minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges
