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Broccoli Rabe with Chile and Garlic

This image may contain Plant Food Dish Meal Vegetable and Spinach
Photo by Alex Lau, food styling by Susie Theodorou, prop styling by Heather Greene

Blanching tames the bitter bite of broccoli rabe without robbing it of its addictive spiciness: A quick dip in salted water makes it more palatable and tender, so that it cooks quickly in the skillet.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    4 servings

Ingredients

Kosher salt
1 bunch broccoli rabe
8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Working in 2 batches, cook broccoli rabe just until bright green, about 10 seconds. Drain and let cool slightly. Squeeze excess liquid from broccoli rabe and coarsely chop.

    Step 2

    Cook garlic and ¼ cup oil in a medium skillet over medium heat, swirling skillet occasionally, until garlic is just beginning to brown around the edges, about 3 minutes. Add broccoli rabe and red pepper flakes and cook, tossing occasionally, until tender, 6–8 minutes; season with salt. Serve broccoli rabe drizzled with more oil.

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