Orecchiette With Sausage And Broccoli Rabe Recipe
Savor the hearty flavors of Italian sausage paired with tender broccoli rabe in this comforting orecchiette dish.
Picture this: a steaming bowl of pasta cradling spicy Italian sausage and vibrant green broccoli rabe. It's a dish that sings with the fresh, peppery notes of the greens and the savory richness of the sausage, all nestled in the adorable little ears of orecchiette. This is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for cozy dinners at home. Orecchiette, meaning 'little ears' in Italian, is a pasta shape hailing from the region of Puglia. It's designed to catch every bit of sauce and flavor. My first encounter with this dish was in a small trattoria on a trip to Italy, where the simplicity of the ingredients belied the depth of flavor they offered. It's a dish that has stayed with me ever since. What makes this recipe so effective is the quick blanching of the broccoli rabe. This step removes any overwhelming bitterness and sets the stage for it to play beautifully with the sausage's spice. The trick is the pasta water—a splash added at the end helps bind the sauce, creating a silky coating that clings to each pasta piece. This dish is ideal for a weeknight when you need something satisfying yet not overly complicated. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings, allowing the simple, bold flavors to take center stage.
Step-by-Step
- 01Step 1 / 6
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the broccoli rabe and blanch for about 2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking, then drain and set aside.
- 02Step 2 / 6
In the same pot of boiling water, cook the orecchiette al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- 03Step 3 / 6
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- 04Step 4 / 6
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the broccoli rabe and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
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- 05Step 5 / 6
Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Toss everything together to combine and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 06Step 6 / 6
Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Chef Tips
- •For a milder dish, use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy.
- •Rinse the broccoli rabe in ice water after blanching to keep its vibrant color.
- •Don’t over-salt the water as the sausage brings its own saltiness.
- •Adding pasta water helps create a silky sauce; start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- •To make it extra cheesy, add more Parmesan when serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.
Frequently Asked
Can I make this ahead?+
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead, but toss them together with the pasta water just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute?+
You can substitute broccoli rabe with regular broccoli or broccolini if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?+
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
