Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the 2 tbsp of salt. Add the broccoli rabe and cook, testing often. until stems are just tender, 2 - 3 minutes. Using tongs lift out the broccoli rabe into a sieve and cool under cold water. Drain and squeeze gently to remove moisture. chop coarsely and set aside.

Bring broccoli rabe water back to a boil then add pasta and cook according to instructions.

Meanwhile, in frying pan heat remaining oil over medium-low heat. Add sausage, garlic, &red pepper flakes and cook, stirring and breaking up sausage with a wooden spoon, until the sausage is browned, about 7 minutes. Add broccoli rabe and stir to combine. Cook until broccoli rabe is hot through, about minutes. Season with salt.

When pasta is ready, scoop out some of the water and reserve. Drain pasta and return to pot. Add sausage mixture and cheese and stir over low heat to combine. Add pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.

Divide pasta into bowls, sprinkle with more cheese if desired then serve.