A dish brings together tender cavatelli pasta and vibrant broccoli rabe for a comforting, flavorful meal. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying dinner that feels special every time.
Prep Time25 min
Cook Time40 min
Total Time1 hr 5 min
Difficulty
Hard
Tips From The Kitchen
Blanch the broccoli rabe before sautéing to reduce bitterness and keep it vibrant green.
Use plenty of garlic and chili flakes to add depth and a little heat.
Cook the pasta just until al dente to maintain a nice bite that complements the greens.
Ingredients
0/14
Why This Dish Is So Special
This dish brings together the slightly bitter, earthy flavor of broccoli rabe with tender, chewy cavatelli pasta. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and fresh. Plus, it’s quick to make and packed with nutrients.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatelli in the boiling water, giving it a stir now and then, until it’s tender but still has a little bite—about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In the same pot, bring fresh salted water to a boil again. Add the broccoli rabe and cook until it’s tender, which should take around 7 to 10 minutes. Drain well.
Step 3
Meanwhile, heat the butter and olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sausage and onion, cooking and stirring until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the broccoli rabe, roasted red peppers, and garlic to the skillet, and cook everything together for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 4
In a small bowl, mix the chicken stock with white wine and water, then whisk in the cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
Step 5
Finally, pour the sauce over your cooked cavatelli, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and give it a gentle toss to combine everything. Serve warm and enjoy!
237
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Combinations
Serve this dish warm with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light salad to keep the meal balanced and refreshing.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. Avoid freezing as the texture of the broccoli rabe may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli rabe instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.
How do I remove the casings from Italian sausage easily?
Cut the sausage lengthwise and peel off the casing with your fingers before breaking the meat into pieces.
What can I substitute for dry white wine in the sauce?
You can use extra chicken stock or a splash of white grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.
How do I know when the cavatelli is cooked perfectly?
It should be tender but still have a slight bite, usually after 9 to 11 minutes of boiling.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the cavatelli and broccoli rabe in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have concentrated chicken stock?
Regular chicken broth can be used, but you might need to reduce the liquid slightly to maintain sauce thickness.
Is it necessary to use both butter and olive oil for cooking?
Using both adds flavor and helps prevent the butter from burning, but you can use just olive oil if preferred.
How do I make sure the sauce isn’t too thick or too runny?
Adjust the cornstarch amount or cooking time; simmer longer to thicken or add a bit more water to thin it out.
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl that's both nutritious and delicious. This simple blend of creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and hear...