Orechiette with Italian Sausage and Broccoli

In a large pot of rapidly boiling water, blanch the broccoli until tender and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the liquid then drain and rinse the broccoli with cold water until it has cooled off. This is done to stop the cooking process. Spread broccoli out on a towel to finish draining. 

Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling water according to package directions, just until al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, place water in a cold skillet with the garlic and sausage; turn heat to medium-low. Cook while stirring occasionally, until garlic is golden and sausage is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Pour reserved broccoli water into the pan with the sausage.

Drain the pasta when cooked then return the noodles to the pot you cooked it in. Season with salt. Pour sausage sauce over the pasta and stir in cooked broccoli. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately