Name: Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 57 min
Total time: 1 h 12 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb broccoli rabe; 4 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 onion; 2 cloves garlic; ¼ cup dry white wine; 1½ cups crushed tomatoes in thick puree; 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; ½ tsp dried thyme; 2½ tsp salt; ¼ cup flat leaf parsley; 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper; 4½ cups water; 1 cup cornmeal

In this hearty dish, the robust flavors of sausage and broccoli rabe combine in a delightful pairing. The richness of the sausage is balanced by the slight bitterness of the broccoli rabe, while the creamy polenta provides a comforting bed for these vibrant tastes. This recipe is a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will leave you satiated and satisfied.

Photos of Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Recipe

Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, might not be as common in most kitchens as bell peppers or celery, but it's definitely worth getting familiar with. This cruciferous veggie has a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with rich, savory foods like sausage. If you can't find it at your local grocery store, try a farmer's market or a store that specializes in Italian foods.

Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Ingredients

Broccoli rabe: This leafy green vegetable may have a slightly bitter taste, but it's a perfect ingredient to balance out rich and hearty dishes like this one.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle flavor and helps prevent food from sticking to the pan.

Italian sausage: Brings a spicy, hearty flavor to the dish. You can choose from mild or hot varieties based on your taste preference.

Onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the spiciness of the sausage.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Dry white wine: Used to deglaze the pan and add depth of flavor.

Crushed tomatoes in thick puree: Gives the sauce body and richness.

Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds flavor to the sauce without making it too salty.

Dried thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.

Salt: Needed for taste enhancement.

Flat leaf parsley: Used for garnishing and adds a fresh, slightly bitter taste.

Fresh ground black pepper: Gives a spicy kick to the dish.

Water: Used in the preparation of the polenta.

Cornmeal: The main ingredient for making creamy, comforting polenta.

One reader, Haydon Novotny says:

This sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the polenta is creamy perfection. The combination of the savory sausage and the slightly bitter broccoli rabe is a match made in culinary heaven. I highly recommend trying this recipe!

Haydon Novotny

Techniques Required

How to cook broccoli rabe: Boil the broccoli rabe in salted water for 2 minutes, then drain, rinse with cold water, and cut into 2-inch lengths.

How to brown sausage: Cook the sausage in a frying pan over moderate heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned. Remove from the pan and slice when cool enough to handle.

How to make polenta: In a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Add the cornmeal in a slow stream, whisking constantly. Whisk in the oil and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently, until very thick.

How To Make Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta

Savor the delicious combination of Italian sausage and broccoli rabe cooked in wine and tomato sauce. Plus, boiled cornmeal to complete the dish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 57 minutes

Total: 1 hour 12 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbbroccoli rabe
4tbspolive oil
1lbItalian sausage,hot or mild
1onion
2clovesgarlic
¼cupdry white wine
1½cupscrushed tomatoes in thick puree,(14 oz) canned
1½cupslow-sodium chicken broth,canned, or homemade stock
½tspdried thyme
2½tspsalt
¼cupflat leaf parsley,chopped
1tspfresh ground black pepper
4½cupswater
1cupcornmeal,coarse or medium

Instructions

In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the broccoli rabe for about 2 minutes until tender.
Drain. Rinse with cold water and drain thoroughly. Cut into 2-inch lengths.
In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderately high heat.
Add the sausage and cook for about 10 minutes, turning, until browned.
Remove. When cool enough to handle, cut into slices.
Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the fat from the pan. Reduce the heat to moderately low.
Add the onion and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent.
Add the wine and bring it to a simmer.
Add the sausage, tomatoes, broth, thyme, and 1¼ teaspoons of the salt. Bring to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
Add the broccoli rabe, parsley, and pepper to the sauce. Bring to a simmer
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring the water and the remaining 1¼ teaspoons salt to a boil. Add the cornmeal in a slow stream, whisking.
Whisk in the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until very thick. Serve with the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 755.61kcal
Fat: 51.17g
Saturated Fat: 15.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 26.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.70g
Carbohydrates: 47.43g
Fiber: 7.23g
Sugar: 6.69g
Protein: 26.48g
Cholesterol: 86.18mg
Sodium: 1811.48mg
Calcium: 209.08mg
Potassium: 1001.98mg
Iron: 7.51mg
Vitamin A: 179.07µg
Vitamin C: 41.35mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta

When preparing the polenta, it's important to add the cornmeal in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming in the polenta. Also, using a wooden spoon to stir the polenta as it simmers helps to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. For an extra creamy texture, you can finish the polenta with a knob of butter or a splash of cream.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a single pot for cooking both the sausage and broccoli rabe to minimize cleanup.

Multi-task: While the polenta is simmering, use the time to prepare the sausage and broccoli rabe.

Efficient chopping: Cut the broccoli rabe and other ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking and save time during prep.

Organized workspace: Keep your cooking area organized and clean to work efficiently and avoid unnecessary clutter.

Quick cleanup: Wash and put away used utensils and ingredients as you cook to maintain a tidy workspace.

Substitute Ingredients For Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Recipe

Italian sausage - Substitute with plant-based sausage: Plant-based sausages provide a similar texture and flavor to traditional Italian sausage, making them a suitable substitute for a vegetarian or vegan option.
Broccoli rabe - Substitute with broccolini: Broccolini has a similar taste profile to broccoli rabe and can be used as a milder substitute in this recipe.

Presenting Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use colorful and vibrant ingredients to add visual interest to the plate. Consider the contrast of the green broccoli rabe against the polenta and sausage for an eye-catching presentation.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the dish by sprinkling a handful of toasted breadcrumbs over the top. This will provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Arrange the sausage slices, broccoli rabe, and polenta with care, ensuring that each element is thoughtfully positioned for a polished presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Before serving, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the vibrant colors and textures of the dish take center stage.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Large pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is essential for boiling the broccoli rabe and cooking the polenta.
Frying pan: A frying pan is used to brown the Italian sausage and cook the onion and garlic for the sauce.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the polenta as it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth texture.
Medium saucepan: A medium saucepan is used to boil water and cook the polenta.
Whisk: A whisk is necessary for incorporating the cornmeal into the boiling water and oil to make the polenta.
Knife: A knife is used to cut the broccoli rabe and slice the cooked Italian sausage.
Colander: A colander is used to drain the boiled broccoli rabe before adding it to the sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring the ingredients for the sauce and polenta.
Tongs: Tongs are useful for turning and handling the Italian sausage as it cooks in the frying pan.
Spatula: A spatula is used for stirring and serving the polenta.

How To Store and Freeze This Dish

To store leftover sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the polenta to help restore its creamy texture. Reheat the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture separately from the polenta. Place the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze the polenta, spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, cut the polenta into portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen sausage and broccoli rabe, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce.
To reheat frozen polenta, place the wrapped portions in the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Unwrap the polenta and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and creamy. Alternatively, you can reheat the polenta in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore its creamy texture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Reheat the polenta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up if needed. Cook until heated through and creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
In a separate pan, reheat the sausage and broccoli rabe sauce over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce is simmering and the sausage is heated through, about 5 minutes.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
For a quicker reheating method, you can also use the microwave. Place the polenta in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Heat the sausage and broccoli rabe sauce in a separate microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have stored the polenta and sauce separately, you can reheat them individually using either the stovetop or microwave method before combining them on a plate.
To add a fresh touch to your reheated dish, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.
If you find that the broccoli rabe has lost some of its vibrant green color during storage, you can quickly blanch it in boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute before adding it back to the reheated sauce to restore its color and texture.

Random Fact about Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta

The sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta recipe is a traditional Italian dish that combines the savory flavors of sausage with the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe. This dish is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It's a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a comforting and satisfying option for any meal. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as Italian sausage and broccoli rabe, are reasonably priced and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of simple, affordable ingredients makes this recipe a good option for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses Italian sausage, which is often high in saturated fat and sodium. Consuming excessive amounts of these can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure.
The dish also includes a significant amount of olive oil, which, while a healthier fat option, is still high in calories.
The polenta is made with cornmeal, which is a refined carbohydrate. Refined carbohydrates can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar and may contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients:

Broccoli rabe is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
The use of onion and garlic provides additional flavor and potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
The recipe uses low-sodium chicken broth, which helps to reduce the overall sodium content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a leaner sausage option, such as turkey or chicken sausage, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, or use a cooking spray to minimize added fat.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as diced bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content.
Use whole grain cornmeal for the polenta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive salt or fat.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more balanced and nutritious version of this tasty sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta recipe.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Recipe

As a culinary genius and chef, I find this recipe for sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta to be a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory Italian sausage pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter broccoli rabe, while the creamy polenta provides a comforting base for the dish. The use of white wine and herbs adds depth to the sauce, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a hearty and delicious dinner.

Enhance Your Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and infused with aromatic thyme for a delightful side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of flavor in every bite.

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Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this tropical and refreshing dessert that's both healthy and delicious. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut will transport you to a tropical paradise.

Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff: This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner. The tender beef and savory mushroom sauce pair perfectly with a bed of buttery egg noodles.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this velvety and flavorful soup. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash is complemented by aromatic spices, creating a truly comforting dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with bruschetta topped with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings such as tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. Serve on toasted baguette slices for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and oats in a delightful apple crisp, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Recipe:

This recipe features Italian sausage and broccoli rabe combined with flavorful crushed tomatoes and aromatic garlic. The use of dry white wine adds depth to the dish, while the cornmeal polenta provides a comforting base. The inclusion of thyme and parsley enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring a satisfying and delicious meal. With a balance of savory and earthy elements, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Sausage and Broccoli Rabe with Polenta Recipe or discuss variations and serving suggestions? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as sweet Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or even chicken sausage. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.

Can I substitute the broccoli rabe with another vegetable?

Yes, you can substitute broccoli rabe with other leafy greens like kale, spinach, or Swiss chard. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, so choose the one you enjoy the most.

Can I make the polenta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the polenta ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra liquid to loosen it up if needed. It's a great make-ahead option for easy meal prep.

Can I use something other than wine in the sauce?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The wine adds a depth of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Store the sausage and broccoli rabe with polenta in an airtight container, and it should keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy it again.