This Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the unique flavor of broccoli rabe with the savory taste of Italian sausage. The pasta is cooked al dente and tossed with a delicious sauce made from garlic, red pepper flakes, and white wine. This dish is a perfect weeknight dinner option that can be prepared in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb orecchiette pasta
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spatula.
- Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil and add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until it starts to wilt. Pour in the white wine and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli rabe is tender.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked orecchiette pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and sausage in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
The name 'orecchiette' means 'little ears' in Italian, referring to the shape of the pasta.
Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter taste.
Sausage made with fennel seeds pairs particularly well with the flavors of this dish.