Instructions: In a 5- to 6-quart pan, bring 3 quarts water to a boil over high heat. Plunge broccoli rabe into water and cook until bright green, about 2 minutes. Drain and immerse in cold water. When cool, drain and coarsely chop.

In the same pan over medium-high heat, combine oil and onion. Stir often for 3 minutes. Add garlic and stir often until onion is limp, about 2 minutes. Add rice, stir, then add wine. Stir until wine evaporates, about 1 minute.

Add 4 cups broth and bring to a boil on high heat, stirring. Reduce heat to simmering and stir often until rice is tender to bite, about 15 minutes.

Stir in broccoli and, for a creamier risotto, a little more broth. Stir often until broccoli is warm, 2 to 3 minutes.

Stir cheese into risotto, then spoon into wide bowls.

This recipe yields 4 servings.

Comments: In Italy, Paul Franson was intrigued by the popularity of vegetables with a bitter edge. Although he finds the taste a little strong on its own, he enjoys the flavor of broccoli rabe when its subdued by a creamy risotto.

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