What is broccoli rabe?

Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor. It's part of the turnip family and commonly used in Italian cuisine.

How do you prepare broccoli rabe for crostini?

To prepare broccoli rabe, trim the ends and coarsely chop the leaves and stems. Blanching helps remove some bitterness before you incorporate it into your appetizer. You will want to saute it after blanching it with garlic and olive oil for best flavor.

What kind of bread is best for crostini?

A crusty Italian bread like baguette or ciabatta works best for crostini. Slice the bread thinly and toast it until golden brown and crisp.

Can I make broccoli rabe crostini ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the broccoli rabe crostini just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy. You can prepare the broccoli rabe filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Perfect Broccoli Rabe Crostini: 5 Easy Expert Secrets

Name: Broccoli Rabe Crostini: The EASIEST Italian Appetizer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound broccoli rabe, washed and chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 baguette, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces ricotta cheese; Lemon zest from 1/2 lemon; Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

Description

A simple yet elegant appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with creamy ricotta and savory broccoli rabe.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound broccoli rabe, washed and chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 baguette, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces ricotta cheese
Lemon zest from 1/2 lemon
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat olive oil, add garlic and red pepper flakes.
Add broccoli rabe, broth, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook until tender.
Brush baguette slices with olive oil and bake until golden.
Mix ricotta with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Spread ricotta on crostini, top with broccoli rabe, and garnish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: broccoli rabe, crostini, appetizer, ricotta, Italian