Description
This one-pot lemon pasta with sausage and broccoli rabe is a vibrant and satisfying meal combining the zesty brightness of lemon, the hearty flavor of Italian sausage, and the slightly bitter bite of broccoli rabe. Creamy burrata and Parmesan cheese enrich the dish, while garlic and red pepper flakes add delightful warmth. Perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz (340 g) orecchiette or penne pasta
- 1 bunch (about 8 oz or 225 g) broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
Meat and Cheese
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, according to preference)
- 1 cup (240 ml) burrata cheese (about 2 balls)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process before starting.
- Cook Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Broccoli Rabe: Add chopped broccoli rabe to the pot and cook for 2 minutes, until it begins to soften, stirring occasionally.
- Cook Pasta: Pour 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt into the pot. Add pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: When pasta is nearly done, return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in lemon zest and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the pasta in bowls, topping each with burrata cheese and a drizzle of fresh lemon juice if desired, to add a bright finishing touch.
Notes
- Use orecchiette or penne pasta for best texture and to hold sauce well.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on desired spice level.
- Burrata cheese adds a creamy, rich contrast to the lemony, savory pasta.
- Fresh lemon juice is optional but recommended for extra brightness.
- This dish can be made with either sweet or spicy Italian sausage to suit your taste.
- Stir frequently when cooking pasta in the pot to prevent stickiness and ensure even cooking.
