Broccolini is part of the cabbage family, while broccoli rabe belongs in the turnip group. Broccoli rabe is somewhat bitter, while broccolini has a milder, sweeter taste to it. Broccolini looks like baby broccoli, with the stems prominent, but is way smaller than a stalk of broccoli.
It contains tender, long stalks of green leaves. Broccoli rabe is often on the menu as a side in Italian restaurants, or they will put it in your favorite pasta dish, such as lasagna. It is peppery with a pleasant texture, and the leaves maintain a subtle lemon flavor. Broccolini, on the other hand, is good in salads or even your morning omelet.
Broccoli rabe is best eaten before the leaves turn yellow. Both vegetables are packed with good phytonutrients, which helps to prevent cancer and protects against disease. Both broccoli rabe and broccolini have vitamin C, A, and K. However, broccoli rabe contains more folic acid.