Penne With Radicchio and Goat Cheese

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Quarter and core radicchio, then cut crosswise into ½-inch wide strips. Set aside 2 cups of the cut up radicchio.

2. Step 2

   Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta and salt generously (but not too generously as you will add some of this water to the radicchio). Add pasta.

3. Step 3

   Meanwhile, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large heavy skillet or wide saucepan and add garlic and red pepper flakes. As soon as it begins to sizzle and smell fragrant add radicchio, except for the 2 cups you set aside, and salt to taste. Stir together until radicchio has wilted, about 5 minutes.

4. Step 4

   When pasta is just about ready, using a ladle transfer ½ cup of the pasta cooking water to pan with radicchio. Add goat cheese and stir together. Stir in radicchio you set aside. Drain pasta and add to pan with cooked radicchio and goat cheese. Add chives, toss together, and serve at once.