Broccoli Rabe substitute

Best substitute

Broccolini

Use the same amount as the broccoli rabe you are replacing

Best for sautéing

Close match

The best substitutes for broccoli rabe are broccolini, kale, or turnip greens depending on the recipe.

Other broccoli rabe substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Kale
Close match
Use the same amount
Leafy green with similar bitter flavor and hearty texture
What changes
Best for
sautéing, soups, pasta dishes, cooking
Similar bitter flavor but different appearance. Remove tough stems before cooking.
3Turnip Greens
Close match
Use the same amount
Leafy greens with similar bitter flavor and texture
What changes
Best for
sautéing, soups, Southern cooking, braising
Similar bitter flavor and texture. Good for cooking applications.
4Mustard Greens
Close match
Use the same amount
Peppery greens with similar bitter flavor and texture
What changes
Best for
sautéing, soups, braising, cooking
Similar bitter, peppery flavor. Good for cooking applications.
5Swiss Chard
Different taste
Use the same amount
Leafy green with similar texture but milder flavor
What changes
Best for
sautéing, soups, pasta dishes, cooking
Milder flavor than broccoli rabe but similar texture. Remove tough stems.
6Collard Greens
Close match
Use the same amount
Hearty greens with similar texture and slightly bitter flavor
What changes
Best for
braising, soups, Southern cooking, long cooking
Similar texture but may need longer cooking time. Remove tough stems.

What is Broccoli Rabe?

Broccoli Rabe is Leafy green vegetable with small broccoli-like florets and a slightly bitter flavor, popular in Italian cuisine.

Cooking tips

Broccoli rabe is perfect for sautéing with garlic and olive oil
Great for making Italian pasta dishes like orecchiette with broccoli rabe
Use in soups and stews for added nutrition and flavor
Broccoli rabe pairs well with sausage, garlic, and red pepper flakes
Store in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels
Trim tough ends before cooking
Broccoli rabe cooks quickly, so don't overcook
Perfect for adding to pizza and flatbreads

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between broccoli rabe and broccolini?

Broccoli rabe has a more bitter flavor and is more closely related to turnips, while broccolini is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese broccoli with a milder flavor.

Can I use kale instead of broccoli rabe?

Yes, kale works as a substitute, though it has a different appearance. Both have similar bitter flavors and work well in cooked applications.

Is broccoli rabe the same as rapini?

Yes, broccoli rabe and rapini are the same vegetable. Rapini is the Italian name, while broccoli rabe is the American name.

How do I reduce the bitterness of broccoli rabe?

Blanch broccoli rabe in salted boiling water for 1-2 minutes before sautéing to reduce bitterness. You can also balance it with garlic and red pepper flakes.

Related substitutes

More vegetables & aromatics substitutes

Broccoli Rabe substitute

Other broccoli rabe substitutes

2Kale

3Turnip Greens

4Mustard Greens

5Swiss Chard

6Collard Greens