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Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
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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.
4 to 6
Servings
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.
30 minutes
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1
tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
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1
pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, cut into 2½- to 3-inch sections
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3
medium garlic cloves, chopped
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½-1
teaspoon red pepper flakes
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2
large bunches (2 pounds) broccoli rabe, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
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1
ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (½ cup), plus more to serve
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2
tablespoons lemon juice, plus lemon wedges to serve
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Kosher salt and ground black pepper
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01In 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.
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02To 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.
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03Add 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.