Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Orecchiette

Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Orecchiette is a satisfying dish that beautifully combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe. This dish isn't only hearty but also quite simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

The orecchiette pasta, shaped like small ears, perfectly captures the sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The use of spicy Italian sausage brings a delightful heat to the dish, which is balanced by the garlic and the earthy notes of broccoli rabe.

This recipe highlights the beauty of Italian cuisine—using a few quality ingredients to create a meal that's both comforting and full of character. Serve it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces orecchiette pasta
• 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta in a colander and setting it aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Once the sausage is cooked, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
4. Next, add the chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes tender but still bright green. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to help wilt the greens.
5. Finally, add the drained orecchiette to the skillet, tossing everything together. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
6. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Enjoy your flavorful dish!

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