Transported to Italy: Rediscovering Simplicity in Extraordinary Dishes
As I take the first bite, I am transported to the rustic kitchens of Italy. There’s a certain magic in the simplicity of their dishes – an alchemy that turns basic ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences. It’s a reminder that true luxury lies not in extravagance but in bringing out the best in each element, allowing them to shine in their simplicity. Orecchiette with Broccoli becomes a vessel for this rediscovery, a conduit for embracing the charm of uncomplicated yet extraordinary meals.
In the final moments of this culinary journey, as I savor the last bites, it becomes evident that luxury on a weeknight isn’t just about the food on the plate. It’s about creating joy, indulgence, and celebration moments – even amid the ordinary. Pasta with Broccoli is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to slow down, relish the flavors, and find pleasure in the simple act of nourishing oneself. So, here’s to savoring the moments, elevating weeknight dinners, and the enduring love affair with the exquisite simplicity of Orecchiette and Broccoli.
Orecchiette: The Traditional Choice for Creamy Broccoli Pasta
When it comes to crafting an authentic broccoli pasta dish, tradition calls for one pasta shape above all others: orecchiette. Hailing from the southern region of Italy, orecchiette, meaning “little ears” in Italian, is the pasta of choice for this beloved recipe.
The unique concave shape of orecchiette is perfectly suited for cradling the creamy sauce and tender broccoli florets, allowing each mouthful to be a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. As I toss the cooked orecchiette with the creamy sauce, I can’t help but marvel at how each piece captures a bit of the sauce, ensuring that every bite is a delicious symphony of taste.
There’s something deeply satisfying about honoring tradition in the kitchen, and for me, using orecchiette in my broccoli pasta recipe is a nod to the culinary heritage of Italy. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most straightforward choices can yield extraordinary results.
So, the next time you’re craving a taste of Italy in your kitchen, reach for a bag of orecchiette and let tradition guide you to a broccoli pasta dish that’s as authentic as it is delicious.
Orecchiette pasta with Broccoli
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 Large Broccoli Head
16 ounces orecchiette
2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Oil
2 Cloves of Garlic
Salt to Taste
1 cup of Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/4 Tsp Reg Pepper Flakes (optional)
Directions
- Wash the Broccoli Head under cold water and cut it into small florets.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat and cook the Broccoli florets until tender.
- Once ready, set the broccoli on a cutting board and mince them. Do not discard the Broccoli water.
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the minced broccoli to the skillet. Toss to combine.
- Add 1 cup of the reserved broccoli water. Salt to taste. Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat. After five minutes, turn the heat down to low to keep it warm.
- Bring the remaining Broccoli water to a broil to cook the orecchiette. (Add more water if needed)
- Cook the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions.
- Add the orecchiette (do not drain the water) to the skillet in the last 4 minutes of cooking. Add 1 cup of the pasta water to the skillet and turn the heat to high to create a creamy sauce. Toss to combine. Remove the garlic.
- Let the water evaporate, and taste the pasta. If the pasta is not ready, add a little bit more water.
- Once the pasta is ready and you have a creamy sauce, move from the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese.
- Serve the orecchiette pasta and broccoli on individual plates.
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