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Broccoli Rabe with Sweet Italian Sausage

This vibrant broccoli rabe with sweet Italian sausage is a classic Mediterranean-style dish that balances bitter greens with savoury meat. By blanching the greens first, you remove the harshest bitter notes, leaving behind a tender vegetable that pairs beautifully with fragrant garlic and high-quality pork. It is a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy seasonal greens while keeping the preparation time to a minimum.

As a diabetes-friendly option, this recipe focuses on lean protein and fibre-rich vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for those monitoring their blood sugar levels. Serve this hearty stir-fry on its own for a low-carb dinner, or alongside a small portion of wholemeal pasta if you prefer a more substantial meal. It is a versatile, healthy dish that brings authentic flavour to your kitchen.

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Ingredients for Broccoli Rabe with Sweet Italian Sausage

  • 1.4kg broccoli rabe (about 3 medium bunches), trimmed

  • 675g sweet Italian sausage links, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 5 garlic cloves, chopped

How to make Broccoli Rabe with Sweet Italian Sausage

Cut broccoli rabe into 3-inch-long pieces. Cook in a large pot of boiling salted water (3 tablespoons salt for 5.7L water), uncovered, until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Squeeze out excess water from handfuls of broccoli rabe.

Meanwhile, preheat grill.

Grill sausage in a 4-sided sheet pan 3 to 4 inches from heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Keep warm, covered.

While sausage broils, heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then cook garlic, stirring, until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.

Separate broccoli rabe, then sauté in garlic oil until coated with oil and heated through, about 4 minutes. Stir in sausage.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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