Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
- 2 pounds broccoli rabe
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds sweet Italian sausage (about 8 links) or luganega (see page 240), cut into 3-inch lengths
- 3 large cloves garlic, peeled
- Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper
- Trim the coarse, tough ends from the broccoli rabe and remove any wilted or yellow leaves.
- Starting at the cut ends of the stems, pull off the tough outer coating of the stems with a paring knife or vegetable peeler.
- Cut any very thick stems in half lengthwise.
- Wash the broccoli rabe in plenty of cool water, then drain, leaving some of the water that clings to the leaves.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium heat in a large deep, heavy skillet or casserole with a tight-fitting lid.
- Poke the sausages all over with a fork and lay them in the skillet.
- Cook, turning as necessary, until caramelized on all sides and no trace of pink remains in the center, about 8 minutes for thinner luganega or up to 12 minutes for thicker sausages.
- Adjust the heat as the sausages cook so they brown evenly without scorching.
- Remove the sausages to a plate and cover with aluminum foil to keep them warm.
- Drain the fat from the skillet without cleaning the pan.
- Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Whack the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife, scatter them over the oil, and cook until golden, about 3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli rabe, and season lightly with salt and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper.
- Pour in 1/2 inch of water, bring to a boil, and cover the casserole.
- Steam, lifting the lid to stir occasionally, until the broccoli rabe is softened, about 5 minutes.
- Uncover and cook over medium heat until the liquid is evaporated and the broccoli rabe is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Return the sausages to the skillet and turn them until warmed through.
- Serve the sausages on plates or a platter, flanked by the broccoli rabe.
broccoli rabe, extravirgin olive oil, sweet italian sausage, garlic, salt, hot red pepper
Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/broccoli-rabe-and-sausage-375162 (may not work)