-- Broccolini has long, slender stems with small florets and it tastes a little like asparagus. It is more delicate and sweeter than broccoli, and is actually a hybrid between broccoli and Chinese broccoli.
-- If you like a slightly bitter taste, you can also use broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, instead of broccolini. Broccoli rabe has thin stalks, little buds, lots of leaves and tastes a bit like mustard greens. It is a very popular ingredient in Italian cooking.