If there’s one dish that embodies the rustic heart of Puglia, it’s Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa. This beloved Italian classic brings together earthy, slightly bitter broccoli rabe and tender, chewy orecchiette pasta in a simple yet deeply flavorful combination.
Picture this: a humble meal with the boldness of garlic, a kick of red chili flakes, and the silky touch of extra virgin olive oil. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just cozy up with a plate of something soul-satisfying, this dish delivers every single time.
Made with a few pantry staples, it’s proof that the best recipes don’t need to be complicated. Just fresh ingredients and a little love are all you need to recreate a taste of southern Italy right in your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
Why You’ll Adore Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa
- Authentic Italian Flavor: A true taste of Puglia, where simplicity shines.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with greens and heart-healthy olive oil.
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes for weeknight ease.
Cuisine
Italian
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients Are Key: Use fresh broccoli rabe and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Control the Bitter: Blanching the broccoli rabe reduces its bitterness, making it perfect for this dish.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Substitutions and Variations
- No Broccoli Rabe? Substitute with broccolini or kale.
- Anchovy-Free: Skip the anchovies for a vegetarian version and enhance the umami with a touch of soy sauce.
- Pasta Swap: If orecchiette isn’t available, small pasta shapes like shells or cavatelli work well.
Make It Healthier
- Use whole-wheat orecchiette for added fiber.
- Reduce the olive oil slightly for a lighter version.
Closing
And there you have it—Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa, a dish that’s as authentic as it is satisfying. With every bite, you’ll taste the sunshine of southern Italy and the love that goes into each ingredient. Share your experience with us, and don’t forget to check out our other Italian-inspired recipes. Buon appetito!
FAQs
- What is cime di rapa?
It’s a leafy green vegetable, also known as broccoli rabe, with a slightly bitter flavor. - Can I prepare this in advance?
It’s best served fresh, but you can blanch the broccoli rabe ahead of time to save prep time. - What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Verdicchio or a light red like Barbera complements the flavors beautifully. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.
Enjoy your culinary journey to Puglia with this simple yet stunning dish! 🌿🍝✨
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Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
Oh, pasta lovers, gather around! If there’s one dish that embodies the rustic heart of Puglia, it’s Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa.
Ingredients
- 500g orecchiette pasta
- 1kg cime di rapa (broccoli rabe), cleaned and chopped
- 50g breadcrumbs
- 4 anchovy fillets
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cime di rapa and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the orecchiette to the same pot and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, in a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and anchovies until the anchovies dissolve. 4. Add red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds. 5. Drain the pasta and cime di rapa, reserving 1 cup of cooking water. 6. Add the pasta and greens to the pan with the garlic and anchovy mixture. 7. Toss everything together, adding reserved cooking water as needed to create a light sauce. 8. In a separate small pan, toast breadcrumbs until golden brown. 9. Serve the pasta topped with toasted breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
