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Broccoli Rabe
Recipe
This easy starter is the essence of simple elegance—just a few ingredients combined for superb flavor and texture. The broccoli rabe mixture also works wonderfully on pasta.
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~ | Kosher salt | |
1/4 | tsp | red pepper flakes |
1 | loaf | walnut levain bread* |
~ | extra virgin olive oil | |
2 | bunches | broccoli rabe |
2 | cloves | garlic, bruised with the side of a knife |
~ | Shaved Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese |
*Levain is a classic French bread similar to sourdough. Substitute the walnut levain with any good rustic Italian or French bread.
Preheat an oven to 400°F.
- Cut the bread on a diagonal into slices 1/3-inch thick (eight to 12 slices).
- Place the bread on a baking sheet and drizzle with each slice with a scant tablespoon of olive oil.
- Bake until the edges are lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven.
- Meanwhile, in a large pot, heat 4 quarts of water in to a rolling boil.
- Stir in a generous handful of salt.
- Trim and discard the thick stems of the broccoli rabe. Cut the remainder into 1-inch lengths.
- Cook the broccoli rabe in the boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well.
- Coat a large skillet with a thin film of oil and place over medium heat. Add the garlic and heat just until the garlic sizzles. Remove from heat.
- Add the red pepper flakes and drained greens, tossing to coat.
- Spoon the broccoli rabe mixture onto the prepared toasts.
- Top with the shaved cheese.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.