Photo by Donata
Donata's Notes:
Expand1 bunch broccoli rabe, about 20 oz. Ask a question about this ingredient
1 pound orecchiette pasta Ask a question about this ingredient
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Ask a question about this ingredient
2 anchovy fillets, packed in oil Ask a question about this ingredient
3/4 teaspoons chili flakes Ask a question about this ingredient
2 large garlic cloves Ask a question about this ingredient
Salt Ask a question about this ingredient
Pecorino cheese, freshly grated, for serving Ask a question about this ingredient
Cut off the stems from broccoli rabe leaves and florets; discard the stems. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt and blanch the broccoli rabe for 1 minute. Drain and spread out on a clean kitchen towel to dry. Use the towel to squeeze out the excess liquid and ensure they’re dried well. Chop the broccoli rabe into small pieces and set aside.
Ask a question about this stepBring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Salt well as it’s coming to a boil. Once it’s at a rolling boil add the orecchiette and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 10-12 minutes).
Ask a question about this stepMeanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil over low-medium heat in a large pan. Add the anchovy fillets and break them up using the back of a wooden spoon. Cook them gently for a few minutes until they dissolve.
Ask a question about this stepAdd the chili flakes to the pan. Peel and smash the garlic cloves and add to the pan as well. Continue to cook gently until the garlic is golden and fragrant.
Ask a question about this stepAdd the broccoli rabe to the pan along with another tablespoon of olive oil. Increase the heat to medium and cook until the broccoli rabe are warmed through.
Ask a question about this stepWhen the pasta is ready, remove one or two ladlefuls of the pasta water and reserve. Then drain the pasta and add to the pan with the broccoli rabe. Add some of the reserved pasta water along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and stir everything to combine. Removed the garlic cloves. Taste and add salt if needed.
Ask a question about this stepTop with the freshly grated pecorino cheese and enjoy!
Ask a question about this step
Amanda is a co-founder of Food52.
