Description
Cavatelli with Broccolini and Sausage" is a delightful pasta dish that suits any dinner table occasion and embodies both simplicity and robust flavor. This dish is mainly known for its ease of preparation, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet comforting dinner.
Ingredients
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- Whole Wheat Cavatelli: 12 ounces
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- Broccolini: 1 bunch (about 8 ounces), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
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- Italian Chicken Sausage or Plant-Based Sausage: 8 ounces, sliced or crumbled
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- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
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- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
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- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): ¼ teaspoon, for a bit of heat
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- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated (optional for garnish)
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- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon, for a fresh flavor boost
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- Salt and Pepper: To taste
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- Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional): ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Here are the detailed step-by-step instructions to make "Cavatelli with Broccolini and Sausage":
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Prepare Ingredients:
- Trim and cut the broccolini into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Slice or crumble the Italian chicken sausage or plant-based sausage.
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Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 12 ounces of whole wheat cavatelli to the boiling water.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccolini to the pot.
- Drain the pasta and broccolini, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.
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Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced or crumbled sausage to the skillet.
- Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
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Sauté the Garlic:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet.
- Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
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Combine Pasta and Broccolini:
- Add the cooked and drained cavatelli and broccolini to the skillet with the sausage and garlic.
- Toss to combine all ingredients.
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Adjust Seasoning and Texture:
- Gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring to combine. This helps to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the lemon zest for a fresh flavor boost.
- Optional: Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and toss to combine until the cheese is melted and coats the pasta and broccolini.
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Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Cavatelli with Broccolini and Sausage!