Pressed Broccoli Rabe and Mozzarella Sandwiches

Ingredients for Pressed Broccoli Rabe and Mozzarella Sandwiches

• 350g [340 g] broccoli rabe (an average bunch), tough stems discarded, roughly chopped

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• Kosher salt

• 2 large garlic cloves, minced

• Pinch of red pepper flakes

• 40g [40 g] green olives, pitted and finely chopped

• 1 1/2 tablespoons drained brined capers, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 4 individual-size sandwich rolls, split (I like rolls with sesame seeds for this, but you do you)

• 450g [455 g] fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Pour water to a depth of 1 in [2.5 cm] into a medium pot and set over high heat. When the water boils, add a large pinch of salt and then the broccoli rabe and cook, stirring, until bright green and slightly wilted, about 30 seconds. Drain the broccoli rabe in a colander, wipe the pot dry, and return it to high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the garlic, and the red pepper flakes and stir the garlic into the oil until it’s fragrant, just 15 seconds. Immediately add the drained broccoli rabe and a large pinch of salt and cook, stirring, until the broccoli rabe is coated with the garlicky oil and is a bit more softened, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and set the broccoli rabe aside to cool down a bit.

In a small bowl, combine the olives, capers, vinegar, the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a small pinch of salt and stir together. Place the rolls, cut-side up, on a work surface and evenly distribute the olive mixture among the rolls, putting some on both halves of each roll. Divide the mozzarella and broccoli rabe evenly among the rolls, close the rolls, and then tightly wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap. Place something flat and heavy on top of the sandwiches, such as a large cast-iron skillet. Let the sandwiches sit under this weight for at least an hour before eating or putting them in your backpack.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.