Broccoli di Rape
Broccoli di Rape, or broccoli raab, is a member of the broccoli family with a bitter edge.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 bunch broccoli raab
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch dried red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons golden raisins
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Boil the broccoli in plenty of salted water for 3 minutes. Cool in ice water and drain.
Heat the olive oil on medium in a sauté pan and add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is golden.
Add the pine nuts, raisins, and broccoli. Sauté until the broccoli is hot. Season with salt and pepper, and serve.
Culinary History
The combination of raisins and nuts was brought to Southern Italy by Arabs during the spice trade. This combination of sweet and savory is very popular in North Africa and most Arabic countries. This same influence brought the widespread use of nutmeg to many Italian dishes.

