Giada De Laurentiis Just Told Us Her Favorite Vegetable and Her Go-To Way to Prepare It
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Giada De Laurentiis Just Told Us Her Favorite Vegetable and Her Go-To Way to Prepare It
Summer is Here: In-Season Vegetables Take Center Stage
As the summer heat sets in, our minds turn to fresh, seasonal produce. We can’t get enough of a big, crunchy salad or a simple roasted vegetable side dish. But, everyone has their own favorite vegetable, and celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis is no exception.
Giada’s Favorite Vegetable: Broccoli Rabe
In a conversation with EatingWell about her new gluten-free pasta line, we asked Giada about her favorite vegetable. Her answer was clear: broccoli rabe. This dark green, leafy green vegetable is a member of the turnip family and is known for its faint bitter taste. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, making it a great choice for eye health and immune health.
Why Broccoli Rabe is Underrated
EatingWell’s nutrition editor and dietitian, Jessica Ball, M.S., RD, shares her thoughts on broccoli rabe. "I love how quick-cooking and versatile it is," she says. "Its slightly-bitter flavor lends itself well to everything from a stir-fry to a creamy pasta. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals."
Preparing Broccoli Rabe
There are many ways to prepare broccoli rabe, and it’s commonly found in Italian cuisine as a side dish with olive oil and garlic. Our recipe for Broccoli Rabe with Olives & Garlic (Broccoli di Rape Stufati) is a great place to start. You can also add it to sandwiches, such as our Cheesy Chicken alla Vodka Sandwich recipe.
Giada’s Go-To Way to Prepare Broccoli Rabe
So, how does Giada prepare broccoli rabe? She shared her go-to method with us. "I usually prepare it in my Chicken with Broccoli Rabe Pasta," she says. "You’ve got protein and veg, so it’s a simple weeknight dish." And, she adds, she sometimes swaps the pasta for her gluten-free casarecce pasta.
Variations and Recipe Ideas
Broccoli rabe pairs well with a variety of ingredients, and you can easily substitute it for other leafy greens like broccolini. Our Chicken and Broccolini Cavatelli recipe is a great example of this. For dessert, try Giada’s Espresso Martini Affogato or our Creamy Chocolate Gelato.
Conclusion
Broccoli rabe is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that deserves more attention. With its quick cooking time and slightly bitter flavor, it’s a great addition to many dishes. And, with Giada De Laurentiis as a fan, you know it’s a vegetable worth trying.
FAQs
Q: What is broccoli rabe?
A: Broccoli rabe is a dark green, leafy green vegetable that is a member of the turnip family. It’s known for its faint bitter taste and is rich in vitamins A and C.
Q: What are some ways to prepare broccoli rabe?
A: Broccoli rabe can be prepared in a variety of ways, including sautéing with olive oil and garlic, adding to sandwiches, or using in a stir-fry.
Q: Why is broccoli rabe underrated?
A: Broccoli rabe is underrated because it’s often overshadowed by more popular leafy greens like kale and spinach. However, it has its own unique flavor and nutritional benefits that make it a great addition to many dishes.
Q: Can I substitute broccoli rabe for other leafy greens?
A: Yes, broccoli rabe can be substituted for other leafy greens like broccolini. However, it’s worth noting that broccoli rabe has a slightly bitter flavor, so you may need to adjust the seasoning in your recipe.
