Italian Sausage and Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe

Ingredients

• 8 ounces wheat orecchiette
• 12 ounces turkey sausage
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 0.25 cup parmigiano reggiano
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. 1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat orecchiette and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean turkey sausage, removed from casing, and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink inside.
3. 3Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, add the extra virgin olive oil and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
4. 4Add the broccoli rabe to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic and oil. Cook until the greens begin to wilt.
5. 5Add the red pepper flakes, and then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and allow the broccoli rabe to cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. 6Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked orecchiette. Toss everything together, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. 7Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
8. 8Serve immediately, garnished with a little more Parmesan and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired.