Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a hearty and flavorful Italian dish, balancing the bitterness of broccoli rabe, the richness of sausage, and the warmth of garlic and chili flakes. This Puglian specialty is simple yet deeply satisfying!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
✅ Base Ingredients:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta 🍝
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped 🥦
- 8 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed 🌭
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- ½ tsp red chili flakes 🌶️
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🛢️
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved) 💧
- Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂
✅ To Garnish:
- ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 🌿
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli Rabe
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Add broccoli rabe and blanch for 1–2 minutes, then remove and set aside.
3️⃣ In the same pot, cook orecchiette until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
4️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
5️⃣ Add sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until browned.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
6️⃣ Add garlic and red chili flakes to the pan. Sauté until fragrant.
7️⃣ Stir in blanched broccoli rabe, mixing well with the sausage.
Step 4: Combine Everything
8️⃣ Add cooked orecchiette to the pan along with reserved pasta water.
9️⃣ Toss well until everything is evenly coated and combined.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🔟 Garnish with grated cheese and fresh parsley.
🥄 Serve hot and enjoy this bold and rustic Italian dish!
Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹
This dish is a perfect balance of bitter, savory, and spicy flavors, making it a true Italian favorite.
✨ Extra Tips:
👉 Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness! 🍋