Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the broccoli rabe for 3 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Add the orecchiette to the same boiling water and cook for 10-11 minutes, or according to package directions, until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and toast the panko breadcrumbs for 3 minutes until golden, then remove from the pan.

Add the remaining oil to the skillet and brown the sausage for 6 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon until fully cooked.

Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the sausage, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the blanched broccoli rabe to the skillet and sauté for 3 minutes.

Drain the pasta, reserving 150ml of the cooking water, and toss the pasta into the skillet with the sausage mixture.

Add a splash of the reserved pasta water and the Parmesan cheese, tossing vigorously to create a silky sauce that coats the noodles.

Serve immediately, topped with the toasted breadcrumbs.