Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

Description:

Orecchiette pasta with sausage and broccoli rabe (also known as rapini) is a classic Italian dish from the Puglia region. The slightly bitter flavor of broccoli rabe pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and the chewy, ear-shaped orecchiette pasta. It’s a simple yet flavorful combination that’s perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

For the Dish:

• Orecchiette pasta: 12 oz (or about 3 cups uncooked)
• Italian sausage: 1 lb (bulk or casing removed, you can use sweet or spicy sausage based on preference)
• Broccoli rabe (rapini): 1 bunch (trimmed and chopped into 2-inch pieces)
• Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
• Chicken broth or water: ½ cup
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (grated, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Lemon zest (optional): 1 teaspoon (for a bright finish)

Optional Ingredients:

• Pine nuts: ¼ cup (lightly toasted, for added texture)
• Fresh basil or parsley: chopped, for garnish
• Balsamic vinegar: 1 teaspoon (for a touch of acidity)

Tips for Success:

1. Blanch the broccoli rabe: If you find the bitterness of broccoli rabe too strong, blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing.
2. Use good sausage: The sausage is the key flavor, so choose a high-quality Italian sausage with a good balance of herbs and spices.
3. Reserve pasta water: Save a cup of pasta cooking water before draining it to add to the sauce, helping everything bind together and create a silky texture.

Steps to Make It:

1. Cook the pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the sausage:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage (breaking it apart into smaller pieces as it cooks) and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the garlic and broccoli rabe:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the chopped broccoli rabe (and red pepper flakes, if using) to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli rabe wilts and becomes tender.
4. Combine the pasta and sausage:
   • Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet with the broccoli rabe. Pour in the chicken broth or water, stirring to combine and create a light sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Toss with pasta:
   • Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli rabe. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish and serve:
   • Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest (optional) for brightness. Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. For extra texture and flavor, garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs, if desired.

Recommendations:

• Make it a one-pan dish: You can cook the sausage and vegetables all in the same skillet for an easier cleanup.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, or a light red like Chianti.
• Add extra greens: If you prefer a milder flavor, try substituting or mixing in spinach or kale with the broccoli rabe.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 4 servings):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe is a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings together rich savory sausage, earthy greens, and the perfect bite of pasta in every mouthful. Buon appetito!