Garlic Sautéed Broccoli Rabe

Serves 2 to 4

• 1 pound bunch broccoli rabe, well washed, tough stems trimmed, chopped in halves or thirds
• Extra-virgin olive oil as needed
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed or minced
• Crushed red pepper flakes to taste, optional
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Drop in broccoli and boil 90 seconds. Transfer to a colander and run under cold water. (May be prepared in advance to this point: refrigerate or freeze in a ziploc bag, and bring to room temperature under warm running water before proceeding.) If also cooking pasta, reuse the pot of water. Heat oil in a large skillet and sauté garlic 1 minute (cover with lid if splatters). Add broccoli and cook 1 minute. Uncover toss with crushed red pepper, salt and pepper, and cook 3 to 4 minutes.