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Broccoli Rabe and Sausage

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage

By Rose HattabaughFebruary 1, 2023

  • Makes
    4 to 6 servings
  • Cook Time
    30 minutes
  • Rating

Simple and satisfying, the classic dish of broccoli e salsiccia—well-browned Italian sausage and tender broccoli rabe—was one of our favorite meals during a recent trip to Naples. The earthy, pleasantly bitter brassica pairs perfectly with spice-rich sausage. The rendered fat from the sausage works perfectly to sauté and season the sturdy greens. Garlic and red pepper flakes, plus nutty Parmesan and a splash of tangy-bright lemon juice, round out the easy dish. Sweet or hot Italian sausage is great here; use whichever you prefer. Serve with thick slices of warm, crusty bread.

Tip

Don’t worry if the second addition of broccoli rabe crowds the skillet; after a few minutes of covered cooking it will wilt, ensuring everything fits nicely.

Ingredients
  • 1

    tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1

    pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, cut into 2½- to 3-inch sections

  • 3

    medium garlic cloves, chopped

  • ½-1

    teaspoon red pepper flakes

  • 2

    large bunches (2 pounds) broccoli rabe, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1

    ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (½ cup), plus more to serve

  • 2

    tablespoons lemon juice, plus lemon wedges to serve

  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper

Step 1

In a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium, heat the oil until barely smoking. Add the sausage, cover and cook, turning occasionally, until well browned and the centers reach 160°F, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a large plate; set aside.

Step 2

To the skillet, add the garlic and pepper flakes, stirring. Add half the broccoli rabe and ½ cup water; using tongs, toss to combine. Cover and cook, tossing occasionally, until the rabe is wilted, 3 to 4 minutes. Scatter the remaining rabe on top, then cover and cook, tossing occasionally, until the stem pieces are tender, another 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the sausage, half of the Parmesan and the lemon juice; toss. Cook, uncovered and stirring, until the sausage is heated through, about 2 minutes. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Serve sprinkled with additional Parmesan and lemon wedges on the side.

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