Ingredients
Method
Make the Orecchiette
- Combine the semolina flour and 00 flour on a work surface and form a well in the center.
- Slowly pour in the water and olive oil, using a fork to gradually incorporate the flour from the sides until a rough dough forms.
- Use a bench scraper to gather the dough and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
- Wrap the dough and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Cut a portion of dough and roll it into a rope about ½ inch thick.
- Cut small pieces from the rope.
- Using a butter knife or bench scraper, drag each piece toward you.
- Turn each piece inside-out over your thumb to form the classic “little ear” shape.
- Dust lightly with semolina as you work to prevent sticking.
Make the Sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch the broccoli rabe for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
- Reserve the water to cook the pasta.
- In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil and cook the sausage (removed from its casing), breaking it into pieces as it browns.
- Once golden brown, create a small well in the center of the pan and add the chopped garlic. Let it cook for 30 seconds.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine and scrape up any browned bits.
- Add the chopped broccoli rabe and season with salt and pepper.
Finish the Pasta
- Cook the orecchiette in the same water used to blanch the broccoli rabe until al dente.
- Transfer the pasta directly to the pan with the sausage and broccoli rabe.
- Add a splash of pasta water, the butter, and the grated Parmigiano.
- Toss everything together until the sauce coats the pasta.
- Serve immediately.
