Broccoli Raab with Sausage and Grapes

Broccoli Raab with Sausage and Grapes is a delightful Italian classic that can be enjoyed as a main course. The combination of savory sausage, bitter broccoli raab, and sweet grapes creates a delicious flavor profile. This dish can also be adapted to serve as a pasta sauce by omitting the grapes and thinning it with water or stock. Feel free to substitute regular broccoli or other greens based on your preference.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: About 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• About 1 1/2 pounds broccoli raab, trimmed and cut up
• About 1 pound sweet, garlicky sausage
• 2 cloves garlic, slivered
• About 1/2 pound seedless grapes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Boil or steam the broccoli raab for about 3 minutes until it turns bright green and begins to tenderize. Drain the broccoli raab and plunge it into ice water for a few moments to stop the cooking process. Drain it again. (You can refrigerate the broccoli raab at this point for up to 2 days if desired, by wrapping it well or placing it in a covered container.)
2. Cook the sausage over medium heat in a large, deep skillet, pricking it with a fork or thin-bladed knife a few times and turning it from time to time. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return it to the skillet over medium heat and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides of the sausage are nicely browned, approximately 5 more minutes.
4. Squeeze out the excess liquid from the broccoli raab and chop it coarsely. Add the chopped broccoli raab to the skillet along with the slivered garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes.
5. Add the seedless grapes to the skillet and heat through. Check for salt and season liberally with freshly ground black pepper.
6. Serve the Broccoli Raab with Sausage and Grapes immediately as a main course.

VARIATIONS:

1. Broccoli Raab with Garlic and Pecorino:

• Omit the sausage.
• Increase the garlic to 4 cloves.
• Substitute 1 cup grated pecorino cheese for the grapes.
• Skip Steps 2 and 3.
• Toss the cooked broccoli raab with pecorino cheese just before serving.

2. Broccoli Raab with Anchovies:

• Omit the sausage.
• Substitute 8 anchovies (rinsed if salt-packed) for the grapes.
• In a wide skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and anchovies, and cook for about 2 minutes.
• Skip Steps 2 and 3.
• Proceed with the recipe.

Feel free to explore these variations or create your own by adding your favorite ingredients and seasonings. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in Broccoli Raab with Sausage and Grapes!