Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together flavorful ingredients in a simple way. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends. The combination of the nutty broccoli rabe, spicy sausage, and tender cavatelli pasta creates a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage. First, it is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. Second, this dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of garlic, sausage, and fresh vegetables. Lastly, it is a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, giving you more time to enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
Making Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatelli pasta (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions:
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cavatelli pasta. Add the broccoli rabe during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook it until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli rabe into the skillet with the sausage. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Toss everything until well combined.
- Plate the dish hot and sprinkle with fresh Parmesan cheese before serving!
How to Serve Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
Serve Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage hot, right from the stove. You can present it in a large serving bowl or plate individual portions. Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor even more. Pair this dish with a simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
If you have leftovers, you can store Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up.
Tips to Make Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
- For added flavor, try using different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian or turkey sausage.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
- Make sure to reserve some pasta water, as it will help create a nice sauce consistency when mixing the ingredients.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or spinach. For a vegetarian version, swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, you can use another type of pasta like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q: Is broccoli rabe the same as broccolini?
A: No, broccoli rabe has a more bitter taste, while broccolini is sweeter and milder. You can use either, but they will change the flavor profile of the dish.
Q: Can I freeze Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove.
Enjoy your cooking and share this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Print
Cavatelli Pasta with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pork Free
Description
A delicious one-pot meal featuring cavatelli pasta, spicy sausage, and nutty broccoli rabe, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cavatelli pasta (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cavatelli pasta. Add the broccoli rabe during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook it until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli rabe into the skillet with the sausage. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Toss everything until well combined.
- Plate the dish hot and sprinkle with fresh Parmesan cheese before serving!
Notes
For a vegetarian version, swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: cavatelli, pasta, broccoli rabe, sausage, one-pot meal, Italian recipe