Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a green vegetable that is a member of the Brassicaceae family. It is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine and is known for its slightly bitter taste. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of broccoli rabe, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Broccoli rabe is a green vegetable that has small, broccoli-like florets and long, thin leaves. It is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine and is often sautéed with garlic and olive oil. The vegetable is known for its slightly bitter taste and is often used as a complement to rich, savory dishes.
Origin
Broccoli rabe is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. It has been cultivated for centuries and is a popular ingredient in Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish cuisine. The vegetable is also grown in other parts of the world, including the United States and Australia.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, broccoli rabe is defined as “a leafy green vegetable with small broccoli-like florets and a slightly bitter taste.” The Oxford English Dictionary describes broccoli rabe as “a vegetable of the mustard family, with green leaves and small, broccoli-like florets, used in Italian cooking.”
Associations
Broccoli rabe is often associated with Italian cuisine and is a popular ingredient in dishes such as pasta, risotto, and pizza. It is also commonly used in Portuguese and Spanish dishes. In addition to its culinary associations, broccoli rabe is also known for its health benefits. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
Synonyms
Broccoli rabe is also known as rapini, cime di rapa, and turnip broccoli. These names are often used interchangeably, depending on the region and the language.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for broccoli rabe, but it is often compared to other leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens.
The same root words
Broccoli rabe is a compound word, made up of the words “broccoli” and “rabe.” Broccoli is a vegetable that is also a member of the Brassicaceae family, while “rabe” is a term used to describe the leaves of certain plants, including turnips and mustard.
Example Sentences
- I love to sauté broccoli rabe with garlic and olive oil.
- The pasta dish was topped with a generous serving of broccoli rabe.
- Broccoli rabe is a great source of vitamins and minerals.
- The restaurant’s signature pizza features broccoli rabe and spicy sausage.
- I prefer the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe to other leafy greens.