SERVES 4 TO 6
If you prefer to use broccoli instead of broccoli rabe in this recipe, use 2 pounds broccoli cut into 1-inch florets and increase the cooking time by several minutes. If you prefer a less spicy dish, use sweet Italian sausage.
Table salt |
|
1 |
pound orecchiette |
8 |
ounces hot Italian sausage, casings removed (see note) |
6 |
medium garlic cloves, minced or pressed through a garlic press (about 2 tablespoons) |
½ |
teaspoon red pepper flakes |
1 |
bunch broccoli rabe (about 1 pound), washed, trimmed, and cut into 1½-inch pieces (see note) |
½ |
cup low-sodium chicken broth |
1 |
tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil |
1 |
ounce Parmesan cheese, grated (about ½ cup) |
1. Bring 4 quarts water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon salt and the pasta to the boiling water and cook, stirring often, until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cook the sausage until browned in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into ½-inch pieces with a wooden spoon, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant, about 1½ minutes. Add the broccoli rabe and chicken broth, cover, and cook until the broccoli rabe turns bright green, about 2 minutes. Uncover and cook, stirring frequently, until most of the broth has evaporated and the broccoli rabe is tender, 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Add the sausage mixture, oil, and cheese to the pasta and toss to combine. Adjust the consistency of the sauce with the reserved pasta cooking water as needed and serve immediately.