How to make it
6 steps. Take it one step at a time.
Clean the broccoli rabe
Clean the broccoli rabe by removing the tough lower stems. Wash the leaves and tender florets thoroughly.
Bring a large pot of salted water
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli rabe and cook for about 5 minutes.
5 minAdd the orecchiette
Add the orecchiette to the same pot with the broccoli rabe and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Heat the olive oil
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
1 minAdd the anchovy fillets
Add the anchovy fillets to the skillet and press them with a wooden spoon until they melt into the oil.
Drain the pasta and broccoli rabe, reserving a small cup of the cooking water
Drain the pasta and broccoli rabe, reserving a small cup of the cooking water. Toss everything into the skillet with the oil and anchovy mixture. Stir well to coat, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to emulsify. Serve immediately.
A little kitchen wisdom
Always cook the pasta and the greens in the same water to infuse the pasta with flavor. For a vegan version, omit the anchovies and add a tablespoon of capers or nutritional yeast.
