Orecchiette Rabe Broccoli Pasta
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and satisfying Orecchiette Rabe Broccoli Pasta, a classic Italian dish that combines earthy flavors and bold aromatics. Tender orecchiette pasta is paired with slightly bitter, nutrient-packed broccoli rabe, which is blanched to perfection for a balance of texture and flavor. A fragrant base of golden sautéed garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties everything together. Tossed with reserved pasta water for a silky finish, this recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and makes a hearty yet light meal for four. Top with grated Parmesan for a touch of creaminess, or enjoy it as is for a vegan-friendly option. Quick, flavorful, and bursting with authentic Mediterranean charm, this pasta dish is perfect for easy weeknight cooking or entertaining guests.
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Ingredients
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 0.5 cup pasta cooking water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 2
Trim the tough ends from the broccoli rabe and chop it into 2-inch pieces.
Step 3
Blanch the broccoli rabe in the boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Step 4
In the same boiling water, cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 5
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 6
Add the sliced garlic and cook until fragrant and just golden, about 1 minute.
Step 7
Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 8
Add the blanched broccoli rabe to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 9
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 10
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 11
Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (891.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2157.3 |
| Total Fat 82.9g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 27.7g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 95.2mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4288.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 266.7g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 14.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 8.1g | |
| Protein 97.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1845.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 16.0mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1115.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories