Broccoli Rabe with Pasta and Sun Dried Tomatoes

In search of an easy vegetarian dish to make during the Lenten season, I created this easy broccoli rabe with pasta and sun dried tomatoes dish. Using the holy grail of olive oil, garlic and parmesan cheese, it is easy to achieve a delicious tasting pasta dish. I added chickpeas as protein in lieu of my usual spicy Italian sausage. I was delighted with the taste.

Broccoli Rabe or rapini as it is also known, is in season during the spring and fall months. Rapini which looks a lot like broccoli, is closely related to mustard greens and turnips. This explains why the flavor is a bit more bitter than broccoli. It has the same health benefits as dark leafy greens, which area rich in fiber and antioxidants.  I like to sauté it in olive oil and garlic and serve as a side. However, you can also use it with pasta dishes and in soups. Below is the recipe for this simple and healthy vegetarian meal.

Ingredients for Broccoli Rabe with Pasta and Sun Dried Tomatoes

• 1 bunch of fresh rapini rinsed well, drained and chopped
• 1/3 cup virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic chopped
• Sea salt & pepper to taste
• A few dashes of red pepper flakes
• ¼ of reserved pasta water
• 1lb bow tie pasta cooked al dente
• ½ cup or more Parmesan Reggiano cheese
• ¼ cup ready to eat sun dried tomato halves
• ¼ chickpeas (optional)

Directions

In a large frying pan heat the olive oil. Next, add the garlic and the crushed red pepper flakes. Add the rapini and sauté until the rapini turns a bright green and begins to soften. Remove pan from burner and cover with a lid so that it will continue to cook by steam.

Cook pasta as directed. Drain reserving at least ¼ cup of the pasta water. Add the drained pasta to the rapini in your frying pan and season with the sea salt and pepper. You may also add additional olive oil if needed. Pour in the pasta water. Coat all the pasta well, then add the chickpeas, and the sun dried tomatoes. Just before serving top very generously with the parmesan Reggiano cheese. If you are not looking for a meatless dish you can add cooked chicken or Italian sausage.

bon appeti!