Broccoli Rabe
The Cima di Rapa from Apulia, Italy, is renowned for its unique combination of tenderness, crunchiness, and versatility in texture. Unlike the industrially grown Andy Boy variety from California, Apulian Cima di Rapa maintains an authentic flavor and superior quality, making it the preferred choice for traditional dishes like “Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa”.
Broccoli rabe has been a staple in Southern Italian cuisine for centuries, and is grown in the regions of Apulia and Campania. Interestingly, broccoli rabe was introduced to the U.S. by the Sicilian D’Arrigo family, leading to the development of the Andy Boy varieties, which differ significantly from its Italian counterpart from Apulia.
Distinctive Taste: Apulian Cima di Rapa is prized for its nutty, slightly bitter, and pungent flavor, known as “amarognolo” in Italian..
Its flavor is nutty, similar to mustard or turnip greens, and bitter in varying degrees—it can change depending on your taste buds, how it's prepared, and its age. Bitterness is part of broccoli rabe's charm, but if you'd like, you can cut some of it by blanching before proceeding with your recipe.
Broccoli rabe, a leafy green vegetable, likely originated in the Mediterranean region and China. It's a turnip subtype, belonging to the Broccoli rabe was reportedly brought to the United States from Italy in the late 1920s and is now grown worldwide, with peak supplies during the late fall and early spring depending on location..
broccoli, form of cabbage, of the mustard family (Brassicaceae), grown for its edible flower buds and stalk. Native to the eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor, sprouting broccoli was cultivated in Italy in ancient Roman times and was introduced to England and America in the 1700s.
Broccoli rabe is native to Italy, where it was originally harvested from the wild before being cultivated. Currently, it is cultivated worldwide, in the US it is mainly grown in California. This plant likes to grow in the cooler months but if it's left to grow for a longer time the plant becomes sweet and less bitter.
Broccoli: nutritional and medicinal properties. Broccoli is a rich source of antioxidants, including vitamins C, K, and A. It also contains several important minerals, including potassium, calcium, and iron.
Broccoli Rabe Nutrition Facts |
|
|---|---|
| Vitamin K | 180 mcg (150% DV) |
| Vitamin C | 33 mg (37% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 2622 IU (52% DV) |
| Folate | 100 mcg (25% DV) |
| Calories | 22 |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.2 g (1% DV) |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g (10% DV) |
| Protein | 3.3 g (7% DV) |
| Calcium | 108 mg (11% DV) |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g (1% DV) |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g (0% DV) |
| Sugar | 0.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg (0% DV) |
| Sodium | 27 mg (1% DV) |
| Iron | 1.1 mg (6% DV) |
| Magnesium | 22 mg (5% DV) |
| Phosphorus | 36 mg (3% DV) |
| Potassium | 218 mg (5% DV) |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg (4% DV) |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg (9% DV) |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg (0% DV) |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Rich in Antioxidants
Broccoli rabe contains powerful antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids that help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
Supports Bone Health
With high levels of calcium and vitamin K, broccoli rabe helps maintain strong bones and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Heart-Healthy Vegetable
The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in broccoli rabe support cardiovascular health by helping to lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure.
Promotes Eye Health
Broccoli rabe contains lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that protect eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Supports Weight Management
Low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients, broccoli rabe helps you feel full longer while providing essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
BellaVita™ sources premium Broccoli Rabe from traditional farms in Southern Italy.
Availability Calendar at BellaVita™
Peak Season: Fall and winter months (September through April), when Broccoli Rabe develops its characteristic bitter-sweet flavor and tender stems.
BellaVita™ offers several packaging options for our premium Broccoli Rabe :
Contact Us
For more information about our productsor to place an order, please contact us at: