If you are craving a vibrant, comforting pasta that celebrates simple, fresh ingredients, then the Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. This dish brings together perfectly chewy orecchiette pasta with a beautifully creamy broccoli sauce, brightened by garlic, a touch of chili flakes, and a hint of lemon zest. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and easy to prepare, proving that a handful of quality ingredients can create magic on your plate every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up the Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe? The ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so special.
- 400g orecchiette pasta: Its cup-shaped form is perfect for holding the luscious broccoli sauce.
- 300g broccoli florets: Bringing vibrant color and a tender crunch, they’re the heart of the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory punch that lifts the entire dish.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Provides smooth richness and helps infuse the garlic flavor into the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat, balancing the creaminess with a little kick.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing and rounding out all the flavors.
- Black pepper, to taste: Gives a subtle warmth and complexity to the dish.
- Grated parmesan cheese (for serving): Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts beautifully over the warm pasta.
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional): Brings brightness and a fresh citrus note to elevate the flavors.
How to Make Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orecchiette
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the orecchiette and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which means tender but still with a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining – this starchy liquid is the secret to creating a perfectly creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
While the pasta cooks, trim the broccoli into small florets and toss them into another pot of boiling salted water. Blanching for 3 to 4 minutes ensures the broccoli turns a stunning bright green while softening just enough to blend beautifully into the sauce. Drain the broccoli and set it aside for the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant and golden. This step is crucial — the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil starts building the mouthwatering flavor foundation of your dish.
Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Pasta
Add the blanched broccoli florets and the drained orecchiette straight into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Gently toss everything together, taking care not to smash the pasta, so each orecchietta cup remains ready to catch and hold the delicious sauce that’s about to come.
Step 5: Add Pasta Water for Creaminess
Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time. Keep stirring as you do this—watch closely as the concoction starts to thicken and coat the pasta. You might not need the whole cup, so add just enough to create that luscious, silky texture that makes this broccoli sauce irresistibly creamy without any cream.
Step 6: Season and Spice
Now is the moment to season the dish. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and if you love a touch of heat, add a teaspoon of chili flakes. Toss everything to ensure that every bite of orecchiette is evenly seasoned and slightly spiced, giving the dish just the right balance of flavors.
Step 7: Final Touches and Serving
Remove your skillet from the heat, and if you like, grate the zest of one lemon right over the pasta. This will add a fresh, zesty note that beautifully contrasts with the rich olive oil and broccoli. Serve it immediately, generously topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese for that salty, nutty finish that brings everything together.
How to Serve Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this dish wonderfully. A sprinkle of extra parmesan and some fresh cracked black pepper are classic choices, but don’t hesitate to add a few torn fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to add brightness and depth. A pinch more of chili flakes can also bring the heat up a notch if you like it spicy.
Side Dishes
This broccoli-forward pasta pairs perfectly with light sides. A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a plate of roasted cherry tomatoes can balance the rich pasta beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or pan-seared fish to add protein without overpowering the delicate flavors of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn this humble dish into a showstopper for guests, serve it in warmed shallow bowls to keep the sauce lovely and silky. Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top for crunch and texture contrast. A small lemon wedge on the side invites diners to add more fresh zest if desired. Presentation can make this dish feel elevated and extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, store the pasta and sauce together. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a splash of water or olive oil when reheating to bring it back to life.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top as the sauce might expand slightly. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra olive oil or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the pasta’s texture and the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to heat everything evenly and bring back the original lusciousness of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
Is it necessary to reserve the pasta water?
Absolutely! The starchy pasta water is key to creating that creamy texture in the broccoli sauce without needing any cream or thickener.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Skip the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast to retain that savory, cheesy note.
What can I substitute for orecchiette pasta?
If you can’t find orecchiette, small pasta shapes like cavatappi, mini shells, or even farfalle work well and will still hold the sauce nicely.
How spicy is this recipe with chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely if you prefer a milder flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe is truly a celebration of simplicity and wholesome flavors. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how just a handful of great ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. It’s a perfect recipe to savor any day of the week and impress even without fuss or fancy techniques.
Print
Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce recipe offers a delightful Italian pasta experience featuring tender orecchiette pasta tossed in a creamy, garlicky broccoli sauce. Blanched broccoli combined with sautéed garlic and a touch of chili flakes creates a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 400g orecchiette pasta
- 300g broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest.
- Blanch Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, cut the broccoli into small florets. Place them in a separate pot of boiling salted water and blanch for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the blanched broccoli and drained orecchiette to the skillet. Gently toss to combine the ingredients without breaking the pasta.
- Add Pasta Water: Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring continuously to create a creamy texture that coats the pasta evenly. Use as much water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Season: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if desired. Toss the pasta mixture thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Optionally, add the lemon zest for a fresh, bright flavor. Serve the pasta hot, topped generously with grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter and affect the taste negatively.
- The reserved pasta water helps to create a silky, creamy sauce without adding cream.
- Adjust chili flakes to control the level of spiciness according to your preference.
- Lemon zest adds a bright, refreshing contrast but is optional.
- Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
