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Pasta con Cime di Rapa

Pasta con Cime di Rapa

Quick Meal Facts: Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cook Time: 20 minutes, Time to Stand: 5 minutes, Total Time: 35 minutes, Ease of Cooking: Easy, Servings: 4, Calories: Approximately 400 per serving, Cost of Ingredients: $10–$15 (varies by location), Cuisine: Italian, Course: Main Dish.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Pot, skillet, colander, and mixing spoon

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta
  • 12 oz 340 g pasta (orecchiette, penne, or any pasta of choice)
  • 1 bunch about 12 oz cime di rapa (broccoli rabe), trimmed and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
  • Optional Variations
  • Protein: Add cooked sausage shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
  • Nut-Free: Ensure any cheese used is nut-free as some may contain nuts.

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  • Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
  • Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, this will take about 8-10 minutes.
  • Add Cime di Rapa: During the last 3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the chopped cime di rapa to the pot. This will help soften the greens without overcooking them.
  • Drain: Once the pasta and greens are cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and cime di rapa in a colander.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
  • Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
  • Sauté Garlic: Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  • Combine: Add the drained pasta and cime di rapa to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
  • Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until well combined.
  • Step 3: Serve
  • Plating: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls.
  • Garnish: Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy while hot!