Homemade Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli and Pecorino
Picture a dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine, a symphony of rustic and genuine flavors that blend into a comforting palate hug. This dish, perfect for days when the heart craves warmth and the table seeks simplicity, is exactly what we’re going to talk about today.
The star of our recipe is a pasta with a unique shape that captures every nuance of the sauce: orecchiette. Paired with green and nutritious broccoli, they are enhanced by the intense flavor of grated pecorino and the unmistakable touch of crispy and irresistible diced lard.
I still remember when my grandmother used to make this dish on cold winter evenings; it was her way of saying “I love you.” Every forkful was a dive into family memories, where the aromas of the kitchen mixed with laughter. And now you, with just a few simple steps, can relive that magic or create your own.
Let your senses guide you in this culinary adventure where tradition and innovation come together, thanks to a final twist: crispy toasted bread crumbs to add that pinch of texture that makes all the difference. Get ready to discover how to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: A traditional recipe with a crispy twist
- FLAVORS: Authentic Italian kitchen flavors
- TIME: Quick prep in 15 minutes
- NUTRITION: Approximately 550 Kcal per serving
- CRISPY TWIST: Sprinkle with toasted bread crumbs for an extra crunch
Notes on the Ingredients for the Recipe
- Little Ears Pasta: a typical Puglian pasta, shaped like small ears
- Green Broccoli: rich in fiber and minerals
- Pancetta: adds flavor and crispiness to the dish
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: a source of healthy fats and fruity aroma
- Grated Pecorino Cheese: with a strong and salty taste
- Salt to taste: to adjust the dish’s saltiness
Nutritional Aspects
Combining flavor and wellness, Broccoli Orecchiette with Pecorino and Pancetta is a delightful choice for those who love the flavors of Italian cuisine with a focus on nutrition.
- Rich in vitamins thanks to the green broccoli.
- Energy intake of approximately 550 Kcal per serving.
- Contains proteins from pecorino cheese and pancetta.
- Extra virgin olive oil, a source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Al dente pasta for a lower glycemic index.
- Vegetarian option: exclude the pancetta for a lighter variation.
Recipe for Orecchiette with Broccoli, Pecorino, and Lardo
Ingredients
- 400 g Orecchiette
- 400 g Broccoli green
- 70 g Lardo diced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil extra virgin
- 5 tablespoons Pecorino cheese grated
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the previously cleaned and divided broccoli florets, letting them cook until they are al dente.
- Drain the broccoli, keeping some of the cooking water, and remove the tougher parts.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil and brown the diced lardo until crispy.
- Remove the lardo from the pan and set it aside.
- Add the broccoli to the same pan and let them flavor in the oil aromatized by the lardo.
- Meanwhile, cook the orecchiette in plenty of salted water until al dente.
- Drain the orecchiette, keeping some of the cooking water, and sauté them in the pan with the broccoli.
- Add the browned lardo to the orecchiette and gently mix.
- Sprinkle with plenty of grated pecorino cheese before serving.
Notes
Variations for Broccoli Orecchiette with Pecorino and Lardo
Add a personal touch to this recipe with these deliciously authentic variations:
- Add fresh chili for an extra spicy kick
- Swap the lardo for crispy pancetta for a lighter twist
- Try adding toasted walnuts for a crunchy, flavorful contrast
- Replace the pecorino with Parmesan for a milder taste
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
If you have any doubts or curiosity about preparing Broccoli Orecchiette with Pecorino and Lardo, you’ll find answers to the most common questions here.
How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the lardo with smoked tofu cubes for a similar flavor.
Can I use a different cheese than Pecorino?
Yes, you can use Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano as alternatives to Pecorino.
How can I make the orecchiette gluten-free?
You can choose gluten-free orecchiette available in stores for a gluten-free version of the recipe.
