Sautéed Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Lemon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli rabe recipe is quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. The gentle sauté with olive oil, shallots, and garlic enhances its natural earthiness, while lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness. Perfect as a side for weeknight dinners or a special holiday meal, this dish brings gourmet-level flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements are listed in the recipe card below.)

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons minced shallot
• 3–5 large garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
• 6 cups packed broccoli rabe, trimmed and roughly chopped (about 1 bunch)
• ¼ medium lemon, for squeezing juice on top
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced shallots and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened.
2. Add smashed garlic cloves and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and add broccoli rabe to the skillet. Sauté for 4–6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the leaves are wilted and stalks are tender-crisp.
4. Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the broccoli rabe, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
5. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2–4 as a side.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 6–8 minutes
Total time: 11–13 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Toss with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch.
• Mix in a handful of grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish.
• Substitute lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
• Pair with garlic-roasted chicken, grilled fish, or over pasta for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover broccoli rabe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes or briefly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I blanch the broccoli rabe before sautéing?

Yes! Blanching for 1–2 minutes in boiling water will reduce bitterness and speed up cooking.

Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, sauté the broccoli rabe and store in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but a pinch of garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Sautéed Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Lemon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side that elevates any meal. With its tender greens, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon, it’s an easy dish that brings both elegance and nutrition to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this simple recipe will become a go-to favorite.

Sautéed Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Lemon

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Sautéed Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Lemon is a vibrant, flavorful, and slightly bitter side dish featuring tender stalks, garlicky aroma, and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon. Perfect as a quick and healthy accompaniment to pastas, roasted meats, or grain bowls.

• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
• Total Time: 11–13 minutes
• Yield: 2–4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

2 tablespoons minced shallot

3–5 large garlic cloves, peeled and smashed

6 cups packed broccoli rabe, trimmed and roughly chopped (about 1 bunch)

¼ medium lemon, for squeezing juice on top

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced shallots and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened.
2. Add smashed garlic cloves and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and add broccoli rabe to the skillet. Sauté for 4–6 minutes, stirring frequently, until leaves are wilted and stalks are tender-crisp.
4. Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the broccoli rabe, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
5. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish.

Notes

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Toss with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch.

Mix in a handful of grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish.

Substitute lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Pair with garlic-roasted chicken, grilled fish, or over pasta for a complete meal.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg