If you’re in the mood for a classic Italian dish that is both comforting and flavorful, Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe with the savory richness of sausage, all brought together with tender orecchiette pasta. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound orecchiette pasta
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Blanch the Broccoli Rabe
- Prepare an Ice Bath: While the pasta is cooking, prepare a large bowl of ice water.
- Blanch the Broccoli Rabe: Add the chopped broccoli rabe to the boiling pasta water and blanch for 2-3 minutes, until bright green and tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer to the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Sausage
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic and Combine
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched broccoli rabe and cooked sausage back to the skillet. Toss to combine, then add the cooked orecchiette pasta. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
5. Season and Serve
- Season the Dish: Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Perfect Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli rabe and high-quality Italian sausage will elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Blanch Properly: Blanching the broccoli rabe helps to reduce its bitterness while retaining its vibrant color and tender texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a cohesive dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy to your table. The combination of bitter broccoli rabe, savory sausage, and tender pasta creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? For a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and add more vegetables or use a plant-based sausage alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Conclusion
Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a classic Italian dish that is both simple and delicious. With its bold flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen.
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