Description
This Orecchiette with Broccoli Sauce is a delicious and creamy Italian vegetarian pasta dish featuring tender broccoli blended into a smooth sauce with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a healthy and comforting main course, it combines simple ingredients with a vibrant flavor and creamy texture, topped with fresh herbs for a beautiful finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5–6 minutes until very tender. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to a blender or food processor.
- Cook the pasta: In the same boiling water, add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Sauté the garlic and spices: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the broccoli sauce: Add the garlic mixture to the blender with the broccoli along with salt, black pepper, 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water, and lemon juice if using. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the broccoli sauce over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Add cheese and serve: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed. Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a spoonful of ricotta or a splash of cream to the sauce before blending.
- You can add sautéed sausage or chickpeas to the pasta for additional protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
