Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins

Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins Recipe | Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins recipe is a delicious and unique dish that combines the bold flavors of broccoli rabe, raisins, and red pepper flakes with the comforting taste of pasta. It's a perfect meal for those looking to try something new and exciting in their kitchen.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes. The combination of spicy broccoli rabe and sweet raisins creates a flavor profile that is both savory and sweet. It's a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends at your next dinner party.

Ingredients

2 bunches of broccoli rabe (1 lb (454 g) each), ends trimmed off and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 lb (454 g) penne or whole wheat pasta
4 tsp vegetable stock
6 tbsp raisins
8 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
4 tbsp water
0.5 tsp dried red pepper flakes
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
2 tsp salt
1 freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Add the broccoli and blanch for 1 minute.
Drain and pat dry.
Bring another large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tsp of vegetable stock in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add the raisins and cook, tossing frequently, until lightly toasted.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly for 30 seconds.
Add the broccoli, water, and red pepper and cook until tender (about 5 minutes). Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet along with the broccoli, remaining vegetable stock, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Toss to combine.
Divide onto about 4 plates and serve.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Substitute pine nuts for the raisins for a different texture and flavor profile.
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the broccoli rabe before cooking it with the pasta to ensure that it stays bright green and tender.

- Toasting the raisins in the skillet before adding the garlic helps to bring out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes used.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side salad or a crusty loaf of bread. It can also be served with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the broccoli rabe before cooking it with the pasta helps to retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Toasting the raisins in the skillet before adding the garlic enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find broccoli rabe, you can substitute with regular broccoli or broccolini. You can also use golden raisins instead of regular raisins for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can blanch the broccoli rabe and cook the pasta ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook the dish. This can help save time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins in a large pasta bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through or reheat on the stovetop in a skillet with a splash of water.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

380

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 82g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 1g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 80% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains gluten from pasta

Summary

This Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins dish is a nutritious and balanced meal that is high in carbohydrates and vitamins. It's a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Summary

This Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, it's sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was an excellent cook, and she had a knack for combining unexpected ingredients to create the most delicious dishes.

As I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the wonderful aroma of garlic and olive oil sizzling in a pan. Maria was standing at the stove, tossing broccoli rabe, raisins, and red pepper flakes in the pan with a smile on her face.

"What are you making?" I asked, intrigued by the unusual combination of ingredients.

"Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins," Maria replied, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly cooked the dish, adding a splash of white wine and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to finish it off. The colors and flavors of the dish were so vibrant and enticing that I couldn't wait to try it.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the pasta and was instantly transported to culinary heaven. The spicy kick of the red pepper flakes combined with the sweetness of the raisins and the bitterness of the broccoli rabe created a symphony of flavors in my mouth. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

After finishing my plate, I begged Maria to teach me how to make the dish. She graciously agreed and invited me back to her kitchen the following week to learn the recipe.

As I stood by Maria's side, she guided me through the process of making Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins. I carefully chopped the garlic, blanched the broccoli rabe, and cooked the pasta to al dente perfection. Maria shared her tips and tricks with me, explaining the importance of balancing the flavors and textures to create a harmonious dish.

After a few hours of cooking and tasting, we finally sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The dish was just as delicious as I remembered, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had made it myself.

From that day on, Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think of Maria and the wonderful memories we had shared in her kitchen.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it my own. I swapped out the raisins for dried cranberries, added pine nuts for extra crunch, and even tossed in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.

Despite the changes I made, the essence of the dish remained the same. It was a testament to the power of good food and good company, and I treasured every bite as a reminder of the bond I shared with Maria.

As I sit here now, recounting the story of how I learned to make Pasta with Spicy Broccoli Rabe and Raisins, I can't help but smile. It's a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

And so, I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, in the hopes that you will continue to share it with others and create your own memories around the dinner table. May it bring you as much happiness and fulfillment as it has brought me.

With love,

Your Grandmother