Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe: 5 Key Differences

If you’ve been to the supermarket and are unsure what the differences are between broccolini vs broccoli rabe, you’re not alone. These two vegetables are strikingly similar to one another, but are they even related, and how can you learn how to tell them apart? While they both belong to the cabbage or mustard family, there are plenty of differences between broccoli rabe and broccolini.

In this article, we will compare and contrast broccolini with broccoli rabe so that you can learn what makes both of these vegetables special. We will go over their physical appearances as well as what they are typically used for in case you’re interested in cooking with either option. Finally, we will go over their nutritional value as well as how to best grow them should you be planning on planting some in your backyard garden. Let’s get started now! 

Comparing Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe

Key Differences Between Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe

There are a number of key differences between broccolini and broccoli rabe. While they belong to the same plant family, broccolini and broccoli rabe are different species from one another. The leaves of broccolini are much smaller compared to the leaves of broccoli rabe. When it comes to the way these plants taste, broccoli rabe has a much more bitter flavor compared to the sweet and mellow broccolini. 

Let’s go over all of these differences as well as a few others in more detail now.

Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe: Classification 

Despite their similarities and names and appearances, broccolini and broccoli rabe are different species from one another. They both belong to the Brassica family, but broccolini is a member of the oleracea species, while broccoli rabe is a member of the rapa species. This means that broccoli rabe is more closely linked to turnips than it is to broccolini!

Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe: Description

It’s no wonder that many people confuse broccolini and broccoli rabe with one another. They both grow slender stalks of broccoli-like plants surrounded by leaves. However, the leaves of the broccoli rabe plants are much larger and more jagged compared to the slender leaves of the broccolini plants. 

When it comes to their tastes, the flavor of broccolini is much sweeter and more mild compared to the bitter flavor of broccoli rabe. Broccolini tastes sweet no matter how it is prepared, but broccoli rabe loses a lot of its bitterness after blanching or sauteing. This is why many people choose to eat broccolini raw compared to broccoli rabe. 

Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe: Uses

Broccolini and broccoli rabe have distinct uses when it comes to their culinary purposes. While they can be substituted for just about any recipe calling for broccoli, the flavors of both of these vegetables truly informs what they are best used for. For example, the strong notes found in broccoli rabe make it ideal when paired with strong flavors such as protein and cheese, while broccolini is delicate enough to be paired with fish or eaten on its own. 

While broccolini is used in a number of different cuisines given its origins, broccoli rabe is popular in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. It is also a key ingredient in Italian sandwiches sold in the United States. The greens and stalks work well with grease and pork products! 

Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe: Nutrition Information

The nutritional aspects of both broccolini and broccoli rabe are strikingly similar to one another. Both of these plants have some studies that suggest they are useful in fighting certain human cancers, but there are many other benefits as well. For example, broccolini is high in Vitamin A and calcium, though broccoli rabe has a higher concentration of Vitamin C and K. 

Broccolini vs Broccoli Rabe: Hardiness Zones and Care

If you are interested in growing broccoli rabe or broccolini in your own backyard, you should know where they thrive best. For example, broccoli rabe grows best in hardiness zones 3 through 10, while broccolini grows best in hardiness zones 2 through 10. Broccolini is slightly hardier compared to broccoli rabe, though both can be grown in many similar areas. 

Choosing a good spot for both of these plants is key to their survival. For example, broccolini prefers full sunlight in order to grow, but broccoli rabe can be planted in partial shade. Make sure the soil is well-draining and that they get plenty of water and food during their growing season!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/bhofack2