Recipe: Ragout of Broccolini, Beans, and Sausage

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White beans, sausage, and broccoli are a classic Mediterranean combination. Instead of broccoli, I use broccolini, because it is more tender and the stems don't need peeling. Preparing the dish with canned cannellini beans makes it a cinch.

4 servings

Pour the oil into a large skillet or saucepan and add the onion and sausage. Cook over high heat for 2 to 3 minutes, breaking the sausage meat into small pieces with a fork or spoon. Add the liquid from the can of beans and bring to a boil.

Meanwhile, wash and cut the broccolini tops into 1-inch pieces and the stems into 1/2-inch pieces. Add to the pan with the garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes and return to a boil. Cover and boil gently for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the broccolini is tender but still a little crunchy.

Add the beans, mix well, and return to a boil. Boil, uncovered, for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors together. Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve as is, or sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and extra oil.

Episode 209: Fast Proof

Bread does take time to make, but Jacques shows viewers how to mix and bake a loaf of bread in one pot in his Slow and Easy Bread in a Pot. Next, he shares his favorite eggs prepared in little ramekins and known as Cocotte Eggs with Creamed Mushrooms. When Jacques raids the pantry and freezer, he finds the fixings to make a Ragout of Broccolini, Beans, and Sausage. Fresh berries and a neat twist on store-bought pastry crust end the meal with Cookie Dough Raspberry Tart.

Minute Recipe: Cheesy Breadsticks

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An ideal vehicle for slightly stale bread, these "sticks" lend originality to your breadbasket and are excellent with most foods, from soup to meat to cheese.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Spread about 2 tablespoons good olive oil evenly on a cookie sheet. Cut 1/2-inch slices from a 6-ounce piece of country-style bread. Cut each slice lengthwise into breadsticks about 1 inch wide. You should have about 2 dozen. Arrange the sticks in one layer on the oiled pan and press on them lightly. Turn the sticks over on the pan and press on them lightly again so they are oiled on both sides. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon each paprika and ground cumin. Sprinkle over the breadsticks. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and crisp.

Makes about 24 breadsticks