Penne with Sausage and Broccoli
Classic italian american pasta dish with broccoli and sausage.
- 16 oz. of penne pasta
- 5 cloves of garlic sliced
- 1 lb of italian sausage removed from casing
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup of reserved cooking water or chicken stock
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2-3 Tablespoons of Olive oil
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Bring water to a boil water in a large pot. Salt water generously. Cook broccoli florets boiling water for no more than 5 minutes. Remove florets with slotted spoon to a bowl filled with ice to preserve color and prevent overcooking.
Bring the water back to a boil and then cook the pasta. While pasta is cooking heat a large skillet with oil and saute garlic until very lightly browned. Remove garlic and set aside. In the same pan brown the sausage and cook until done, aprox. 10-15 mins. Add the broccoli and saute a minute or two.
Drain cooked pasta, reserving a cup of liquid. Add the cooked pasta to the pan mix together and then gradually add the water (or stock) to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, uncovered. Add the crispy garlic and grated parmesan cheese (to taste) and toss together. OR Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
NOTE:
- Make sure to add plenty of salt to the water as it will flavor the dish!