Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Rotini

Fill a large pot with water that has been lightly seasoned with salt, then place it over high heat to bring the water to a vigorous boil. Continue boiling until the water reaches its maximum temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and return it to a boil, ensuring the water remains at its maximum temperature. Cook the pasta uncovered for approximately 6 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness, still retaining some firmness in the center. Remove from heat and drain off excess water using a colander set in the sink.

During this time, prepare the steamer by inserting it into a saucepan and filling it with water that just reaches the bottom of the steamer. Cover the pan and bring the water to its maximum temperature over high heat, creating a steamy environment. Add the broccoli rabe and cover again; cook until it reaches your desired level of tenderness, approximately 2 minutes depending on its thickness.

Meanwhile, cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until it is nicely browned and no longer pink inside, taking around 5 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the pan and set it aside; discard any excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon of sausage drippings in the pan. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook until it starts to turn golden brown, approximately 1 minute.

Add half of the broccoli rabe to the pan and stir until it has wilted, then add the remaining rabe and diced tomatoes. Continue cooking until the broccoli rabe is tender, about 5 minutes; sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.

Return the cooked sausage to the pan, cooking it just until it reaches your desired level of heat; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve the hot sausage over steaming rotini pasta.