Brown Rice Penne with Rapini and White Beans

Ingredients

• 2 bunches rapini (1 pound each)
• 1/3 cup plus 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 pound brown rice penne (or similar pasta)
• 3/4-1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 7 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• Grated ricotta salata or crumbled feta cheese, for garnish