Elevate your Whole30 meal plan with this vibrant and nutritious Steamed Broccoli Rabe recipe, a perfect side dish packed with flavor and simplicity. Featuring tender, slightly bitter broccoli rabe blanched and sautéed with fragrant garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a kick of red pepper flakes, this dish is finished with a refreshing drizzle of fresh lemon juice for a burst of zesty brightness. The quick preparation and steaming technique preserve the vivid green color and crunchy texture while ensuring every bite is healthy and satisfying. Ready in just 20 minutes and entirely Whole30-compliant, this recipe is ideal for those seeking a wholesome addition to any meal without compromising on flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite protein for a delicious, nutrient-packed experience.
Rinse the broccoli rabe thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the tough ends of the stems and discard. Cut the remaining stalks and leaves into rough 2-3 inch sections.
Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Set aside.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Once boiling, blanch the broccoli rabe for 2 minutes to remove bitterness.
Drain the broccoli rabe and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its vibrant color. After 2-3 minutes, drain and pat dry with a clean towel.
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Add the broccoli rabe to the skillet. Season with the sea salt and red pepper flakes, tossing well to coat everything in the oil.
Cover the skillet with a lid and steam the broccoli rabe over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still bright green.
Transfer the broccoli rabe to a serving dish and drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a Whole30-compliant side dish.
Calories |
379 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.6 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1313 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22.2 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.8 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.9 g | ||
| Protein | 16.3 g | 33% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 524 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 1025 mg | 22% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.