Broccoli Rabe and Rotini

Tonight I am cooking for one and wanted something simple, but bold. I had some broccoli rabe and any box of pasta will do and I used rotini.

1/2 box of rotini
1 bunch broccoli rabe, cut in half
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt & Pepper to taste

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli rabe and cook for about 4 minutes. Remove the broccoli rabe keeping the flavored water and sprinkle more salt in the pot. Bring back to a boil and add pasta. Cook according to instructions. Reserve 1 cup of cooking liquid. In the same large pot on medium heat add the oil, garlic and pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes (don't let the garlic brown). Turn heat off and add the broccoli rabe. Stir with tongs. Add the rotini. Season with salt and pepper to taste. A good hard cheese could be added as well as diced chicken or Italian sausage. 

side note: For all of my recipes the quantities are all approximity. Taste is subjective and what I feel is the proper amount may be too much for some and not enough for others. Cook according to your preference.