Sautéed Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Lemon
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.
- 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
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced shallots and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened.
- Add smashed garlic cloves and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
- 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.
- Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the broccoli rabe, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
- 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
