Sausage and Broccoli Rabewith Cavatappi

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until lightly browned and fragrant.

Add the broccoli rabe to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the leaves are wilted and the stems are tender, about 4–5 minutes.

While the broccoli rabe cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the cavatappi pasta, and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually 10–12 minutes.

Push the broccoli rabe to the side of the pan and add the mild Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon; cook until fully browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste, stirring to combine.

Drain the cooked cavatappi, reserving a small cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet, toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce, and serve hot.