Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a delightful Italian dish that brings together the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, the freshness of broccoli, and the unique shape of orecchiette pasta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The dish is comforting, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal for any time of the year.
Introduction
Orecchiette, which translates to “little ears” in Italian, is a traditional pasta from the Apulia region of Italy. Its unique shape makes it perfect for holding onto sauces, making every bite delicious. This dish combines the savory flavor of Italian sausage with the healthy crunch of broccoli, creating a balance of taste and texture that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is sure to impress.
History of Orecchiette
Orecchiette has its roots in the Puglia region of Italy, where it has been made for centuries. The pasta is typically made from durum wheat semolina and water, and it is often shaped by hand. Traditionally, orecchiette is served with a variety of sauces, but one of the most popular combinations is with broccoli rabe or “cima di rapa,” a bitter green that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of sausage. The dish has evolved over time, and now many variations exist, making it a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful: The combination of sausage, garlic, and broccoli creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Nutritious: With broccoli as a primary ingredient, this dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice.
- Versatile: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your dietary preferences, whether by swapping out ingredients or adjusting the spice level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1 Preparing the Broccoli
- Wash and Cut the Broccoli: Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut the head into small florets, ensuring they are bite-sized. You can also peel and slice the stem if you prefer to include it.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green but are still crisp. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
2 Cooking the Sausage
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Once the sausage is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3 Cooking the Orecchiette
- Cook the Pasta: While the sausage is cooking, bring another large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until al dente.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used to help bind the sauce later.
- Drain the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
4 Combining the Ingredients
- Add Broccoli to Sausage: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is heated through.
- Combine Pasta and Sausage Mixture: Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
- Season: Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together for a minute or two.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss to combine until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Blanching is key to maintaining the broccoli’s bright color and crisp texture. Make sure to immediately transfer it to ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Use High-Quality Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality Italian sausage. If you prefer, you can use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, feel free to add more!
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is your friend! It helps to create a cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompanying Sides: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the sausage and broccoli.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Variations and Substitutions
1 Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian alternative, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
2 Spicy Version
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding more red pepper flakes. You can also toss in sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Storing and Reheating
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and broccoli mixture ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, cook the orecchiette and combine everything for a quick and easy meal.
Q: Can I freeze Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli?
While you can freeze the dish, the texture of the broccoli may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider undercooking the broccoli slightly before freezing to help maintain its texture.
Conclusion
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of savory sausage, fresh broccoli, and delightful pasta creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. With easy preparation and numerous variations, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious Italian classic!
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli is a delightful Italian dish that brings together the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, the freshness of broccoli, and the unique shape of orecchiette pasta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The dish is comforting, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces orecchiette pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference), casings removed
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. This will blanch the broccoli and cook it until tender.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the drained orecchiette and broccoli to the skillet with the sausage.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well until creamy. If the pasta seems dry, add more reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
4. Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.