1 Bunch Broccoli Rabe
2 Cloves Garlic Finely Minced
1-2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
6 Ripe Plum Tomatoes Skinned, Cored And Cut Into Dice
Salt And Pepper To Taste
Red Pepper Flakes
500 Gram Package Of Your Short Pasta Of Choice
Grated Parmesan Cheese To Serve (Optional)
Begin by washing the broccoli rabe, and cutting it into 1 inch pieces. If the stems aren't too thick and woody, peel these and cut them also. Put a pot of water on to boil for the pasta. In a small saucepan, heat the oil and add the garlic. As soon as it sizzles, but before it takes on color, add the tomato pieces. Cook just until heated, and remove the pot from the burner. Season with salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook the pasta in boiling water, and during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli rabe to the pot. Drain both the pasta and broccoli rabe, keeping a small cup of pasta water set aside.
Return the pasta and broccoli rabe to the pot, and put on the stove at high heat. Immediately add the tomato mixture and stir. Add just enough pasta water to moisten, and remove from the heat once everything is piping hot. Serve, with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if you are using it.
Note: You can make a "sauce" for pasta using many vegetables similarly with almost no oil, which makes a nice light alternative to heavy sauces.
