Broccoli Rabe with Sausage and Parmesan

//cookanyday.com/cdn/shop/files/Anyday_Photos_Recipes_BroccoliRabewithSausageandParmesan_1024_1_360x.webp?v=1722368434 Broccoli rabe with sausage and parmesan, made and served in a clear glass Anyday dish, garnished with grated cheese and red pepper flakes.
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Prep Time

7 mins

Cook Time

4-5 mins

Free Time

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Enjoy bright, cruciferous broccoli rabe cooked in the microwave with savory Italian sausage, all garnished with fresh lemon juice and grated Parmesan. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, roast chicken, or beef for a complete meal. As the broccoli rabe cooks, it absorbs the delicious flavors of the sausage and accompanying vegetables, thanks to the Anyday dish's lid, which traps just the right amount of steam for perfect cooking. Experience a flavorful side that’s both simple and satisfying!

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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What You’ll Need

What You’ll Need

The Medium Shallow Dish

Look no further for making poached eggs, desserts, dips, and small portions of meat or fish.

The Small Square Dish

Flash-steam small portions of food in the microwave, evenly reheat leftovers, or store food in the fridge with the lid’s airtight seal. 

The Anyhand Mitts

Handle hot Anyday dishes with care with these microwave mitts that double as trivets!
Try Anyday

Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

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Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

Microwave oven by power - 700w
700w

Recommended 

Dish

The Medium Shallow Dish

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 oz (75g) Italian sausage, casing removed and broken into smaller pieces 
  • 2 cups (100g) broccoli rabe or broccolini, cut into 1” pieces.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

  1. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, and sausage into the Anyday dish and stir to combine. Cover with lid (knob lifted) and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sausage is partially cooked (will be slightly pink).
  2. Add the broccoli rabe and toss to combine. Cover with lid (knob lifted) and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli rabe is tender and the sausage is cooked through.
  3. Squeeze the lemon juice and top with parmesan.

Serving suggestions & tips

  • Toasted almonds: Add chopped toasted almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the dish perfectly.
  • Smoky twist: Substitute Italian sausage with Spanish style chorizo for a smoky flavor that adds a new dimension to the meal.
  • Pasta addition: Stir the broccoli rabe and sausage into cooked pasta for a quick, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to satisfy.
  • Citrus zest: Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness that brightens the flavors.

Recipe notes

  • This recipe can be made with regular broccoli, broccolini, or even frozen broccoli.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making Broccoli Rabe with Sausage in the Microwave

What is broccoli rabe?

Broccoli rabe (also known as rapini) is a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor and small flower buds resembling broccoli. It’s packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, making it a healthy addition to any meal. Often used in Italian cuisine, broccoli rabe pairs beautifully with various meats, and pasta dishes, and can be a delightful side on its own.

Can I cook broccoli rabe in the microwave?

Yes, you can cook broccoli rabe in the microwave! Using an Anyday dish makes it easy and quick to prepare, allowing the greens to steam perfectly while retaining their vibrant color and nutrients. Many traditional preparations require blanching the broccoli rabe in salted water, but the microwave makes this easy—no stovetop boiling required.

How can I substitute broccoli rabe?

If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can substitute it with regular broccoli, broccolini, frozen broccoli, or even kale. Each brings its own distinct flavor, but all make a nutritious and delicious addition to the dish.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the sausage and using a plant-based sausage alternative. Additionally, you can replace the Parmesan cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that savory flavor without any animal products.

How long can I save leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days when kept in an Anyday dish with the lid on. This makes for a convenient meal prep option, so you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish later in the week without the need for additional cooking.

What is the best way to reheat broccoli rabe?

To reheat broccoli rabe, simply place it in the microwave using an Anyday dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method keeps the greens tender and flavorful, making your leftovers just as enjoyable.