Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Pasta

Ingredients:

1 pound broccoli rabe (rapini)

12 ounces short pasta like strozzapreti, rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound Italian sausage sweet or spicy

4 large garlic cloves finely chopped

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or more

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 ounce grated parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1:

Wash rapini (see recipe note); drain and coarsely chop.

Step 2:

Heat a large pot of salted water to boil.

Add rapini and cook 1 minute (working in batches if necessary); transfer rapini to colander to drain.

Return water to boil.

Step 3

Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente (tender, but firm to the bite).

Drain pasta reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.

Step 4:

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add sausage and brown, breaking up with a spoon, 6 to 8 minutes.

Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook and stir until garlic is fragrant and golden, about 1 minute more.

Add broccoli rabe and toss to coat.

Add pasta and stir to combine, adding reserved cooking liquid a few tablespoons at a time as needed to moisten.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Divide among 4 pasta bowls; sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various short pasta shapes like strozzapreti, rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni as suggested in the recipe.

Feel free to use your favorite short pasta if you prefer.

What can I use instead of Italian sausage?

If you don’t have Italian sausage, you can substitute it with other types of sausage like chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.

Is broccoli rabe the same as broccoli?

No, broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a leafy green vegetable with small broccoli-like florets.

It has a slightly bitter taste compared to regular broccoli.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the sausage altogether or replace it with vegetarian sausage or plant-based protein alternatives to make a delicious vegetarian version of this pasta dish.

How do I adjust the spiciness level of the dish?

The spiciness of the dish primarily comes from the crushed red pepper flakes.

Feel free to adjust the amount according to your preference.

You can add more for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use frozen broccoli rabe instead of fresh?

While fresh broccoli rabe is recommended for best flavor and texture, you can use frozen broccoli rabe as a substitute. However, be aware that frozen broccoli rabe may have a slightly different texture after cooking.

What is the best way to wash and prepare broccoli rabe?

Wash the broccoli rabe thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

Trim the tough ends of the stems and remove any yellowed leaves.

Coarsely chop the broccoli rabe before cooking.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage in this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage if you prefer.

Simply slice the pre-cooked sausage and add it to the skillet along with the garlic and red pepper flakes.

Sauté until heated through.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, you can use whole wheat or multigrain pasta for added fiber, opt for lean turkey sausage instead of pork sausage, and reduce the amount of cheese or choose a lighter cheese option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

Cook the pasta and sausage mixture separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with broccoli rabe and sausage pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal.

You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.

Can I freeze leftovers of this pasta dish?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of broccoli rabe and sausage pasta for future meals.

Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some alternative seasonings I can use?

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the crushed red pepper flakes with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or add dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a classic Italian taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the sausage and using plant-based sausage or substituting it with cooked white beans or chickpeas for added protein.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While parmesan cheese adds a delicious savory flavor, you can use other cheeses like pecorino romano, asiago, or even shredded mozzarella for a gooey topping.

Adjust according to your taste preferences.