Spring Rapini Raab Broccoli

40 days — Rapini is also known as Broccoli Raab, Broccoletti, Broccoletto, Broccoli di Rape, Cime di Rapa, Rappi, and in Naples, Friarielli. Although related, it is not exactly the same as broccoli.

This is an early spring variety planted for a harvest during the shorter days of spring. Although they have no central head, they have many small, tasty leaves and side shoots. They actually look similar to mustard plants with many nickle-sized, green flower buds (florets).

As part of the cabbage family, it is related to, but its flavor is sharper than, broccoli. Rapini is generally used as cooking greens but can be enjoyed steamed, grilled and sautéed. A quick, favorite recipe of ours is simply to sautée with garlic in olive oil and season with some gourmet salt. The flavor is slightly nutty with a pleasant bitter component. If the flavor is too strong for you, try blanching. Each packet contains 1 gram, which is about 300 seeds.