Does the vegetable called “broccoli rabe” have all the nutrition of regular broccoli?
Although it’s relatively uncommon in the United States, broccoli rabe also called rapini is very popular in Italy and China. Part of the cruciferous family that includes broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, broccoli rabe has green leaves and thin, firm stems. It contains more leaves than conventional broccoli and instead of a head of florets it has scattered clusters of tiny broccoli-like buds. Like conventional broccoli, broccoli rabe is low in calories and an excellent source of vitamin C. Broccoli rabe has even more beta-carotene than the standard U.S. broccoli. It provides plant compounds called isothiocyanates, which help in the process of detoxifying carcinogens before they cause harm. Because it has a much stronger flavor than its more familiar cousin, broccoli rabe is best added to pasta or potato dishes, or served lightly sauted in a little olive oil for a side dish. Enjoy using it to add variety and good nutrition to meals. ### AICR’s Nutrition Hotline is a free servic
