Broccoli rabe substitutes
Broccoli rabe substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Broccolini
Same amount as the broccoli rabe
Hybrid vegetable with similar appearance and milder flavor.
The best substitutes for broccoli rabe are broccolini, kale, or turnip greens depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- sautéing
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of broccoli rabe | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Broccolinisautéing | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Kalesautéing | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Turnip greenssautéing | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Mustard greenssautéing | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Swiss chardsautéing | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Collard greensbraising | Same amountWorks | Works |
Broccolini
similar taste and texture
Hybrid vegetable with similar appearance and milder flavor.
- Best for
- sautéing, roasting, pasta dishes, Italian cooking
Very similar appearance but milder flavor. Close substitute for most applications.
Kale
similar taste and texture
Leafy green with similar bitter flavor and hearty texture.
- Best for
- sautéing, soups, pasta dishes, cooking
Similar bitter flavor but different appearance. Remove tough stems before cooking.
Turnip greens
similar taste and texture
Leafy greens with similar bitter flavor and texture.
- Best for
- sautéing, soups, Southern cooking, braising
Similar bitter flavor and texture. Good for cooking applications.
Mustard greens
similar taste and texture
Peppery greens with similar bitter flavor and texture.
- Best for
- sautéing, soups, braising, cooking
Similar bitter, peppery flavor. Good for cooking applications.
Swiss chard
different taste, similar texture
Leafy green with similar texture but milder flavor.
- Best for
- sautéing, soups, pasta dishes, cooking
Milder flavor than broccoli rabe but similar texture. Remove tough stems.
Collard greens
similar taste and texture
Hearty greens with similar texture and slightly bitter flavor.
- Best for
- braising, soups, Southern cooking, long cooking
Similar texture but may need longer cooking time. Remove tough stems.
Questions
4 questionsWhat'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.
Tips for substituting broccoli rabe
8 tips- Broccoli rabe is good 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
- Good for adding to pizza and flatbreads