Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and season generously with salt.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat the 1/3 cup oil in a very large, deep skillet with a lid over medium heat. Add the garlic, anchovies (if using), red pepper flakes, and stir for a few seconds, then add the broccoli rabe. Season with salt and pepper and stir to coat with the oil for 1 minute. Add 1/4 cup water, cover the pot, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until the broccoli rabe is crisp-tender.

Step 3

While the broccoli rabe is cooking, cooking the pasta in the boiling water according to package directions. Remove 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Step 4

Return the pasta to the pot, add half of the reserved cooking water, the lemon juice and zest, and the broccoli rabe with any liquid left in the pan. Toss to combine well. Add more cooking water if the mixture seems dry. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5

Transfer the pasta and broccoli rabe to a serving bowl, or to individual plates, and sprinkle over the Parmesan, if desired. Let people drizzle a bit of extra olive oil on the top of their portions if they wish.