Ingredients

1 pound broccoli rabe, tough stems removed

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1 small clove garlic, smashed and peeled

1/3 cup walnuts, toasted

1 ounce pecorino, grated (1/2 cup)

2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 ounces salami, such as sopressata, thinly sliced (1/2 cup)

1 pound orecchiette

Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

Preparation

Cook broccoli rabe in a large pot of salted boiling water until bright green and tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to an ice bath; drain well. Add to the bowl of a food processor with garlic, walnuts, cheese, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add 1/4 cup oil; process until smooth.

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium. Add salami; cook until crisp, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to paper towels.

Meanwhile, return pot of water to a boil. Add pasta; cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 2 cups water. Add pasta to skillet with pesto and half of salami. Add pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, to evenly coat. Season with pepper and nutmeg, sprinkle with remaining salami, and serve.