A flavorful dish combines savory Italian sausage with the slightly bitter bite of broccoli rabe for a perfect balance of tastes. It’s quick to make and sure to become a family favorite on busy weeknights.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time30 min
Total Time45 min
Difficulty
Medium
Chef Tips
Blanch the broccoli rabe in boiling water for a minute before sautéing to reduce bitterness.
Cook the sausage thoroughly until browned to enhance its flavor.
Use good quality olive oil to add richness and depth to the dish.
Ingredients
0/6
What Makes This Recipe Special
This dish combines the bold flavors of spicy sausage with the slightly bitter, earthy taste of broccoli rabe. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that feels both comforting and fresh. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the broccoli rabe. Let it cook for about 12 minutes, or until the stems are nice and tender. Drain the greens, but be sure to save a cup of the cooking water.
Step 2
While that’s going on, heat up 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook it for around 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s browned all over. Once done, take the sausage out and set it aside.
Step 3
In the same pan, toss in the garlic and cook it for just about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli rabe back into the pan along with the reserved cup of cooking liquid and half of the lemon juice. Give everything a good stir.
Step 4
Now, return the sausage to the pan and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld. Just before serving, drizzle in the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, give it one last stir, and you’re ready to enjoy.
406
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Serving Guide
Serve this dish over your favorite pasta, such as orecchiette or penne, to soak up the flavorful juices. It also pairs well with crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the sausage tender and the broccoli rabe fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the greens may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli rabe for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess water.
What can I substitute for fennel sausage if I can’t find it?
Italian sausage or spicy sausage work well as alternatives.
How do I know when the broccoli rabe is cooked properly?
The stems should be tender but not mushy after about 12 minutes boiling.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently to avoid drying out the sausage and broccoli rabe.
Is there a way to make this recipe less oily?
Reduce the olive oil to 3-4 tablespoons, but keep some for flavor.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use ½ teaspoon garlic powder if needed.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh juice gives a brighter taste.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat depends on your sausage choice; fennel sausage is mildly spiced.
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