Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatelli pasta (or your pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. If you prefer a bit of heat, add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the sausage as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Broccoli Rabe

Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Next, add the broccoli rabe to the pan. Toss it with the sausage and garlic, allowing it to wilt and cook for about 5-7 minutes. If the pan seems dry, add a splash of water or a little more olive oil to help the broccoli rabe cook down.

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. The broccoli rabe should be tender, with a slight bitterness that pairs wonderfully with the sausage’s rich flavors.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta with the Sausage and Broccoli Rabe

Once the broccoli rabe is cooked, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and broccoli rabe. Toss everything together, adding some of the reserved pasta water as needed to help create a cohesive sauce. The pasta water will help to emulsify the oil, sausage juices, and flavors, creating a silky texture.

If the dish seems too dry, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well mixed, divide the pasta among plates. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of freshness. The lemon adds a nice contrast to the richness of the sausage and the bitterness of the broccoli rabe.