Fresh and Delicious Orecchiette and Broccoli First Course Recipe

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering and satisfying first course recipe, look no further than this fresh and delicious Orecchiette and Broccoli dish. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Orecchiette, a type of pasta shaped like little ears, is the perfect choice for this recipe. Its curved shape allows it to hold onto the delicious sauce and ingredients, ensuring that every bite is filled with flavor. Combined with the vibrant green broccoli florets, this first course is not only tasty but also visually appealing.

To begin, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 8 ounces of orecchiette pasta
– 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the broccoli by placing it in a steamer basket and steaming it until it’s tender but still crisp. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Sauté them for about a minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Next, add the steamed broccoli florets to the skillet and toss them with the garlic and oil mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.

Once the orecchiette pasta is al dente, drain it, reserving a small amount of the cooking water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and garlic, tossing everything together gently. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a splash of the pasta cooking water to moisten it.

Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and broccoli, giving it a cheesy and savory touch. Toss everything one last time to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed. To serve, garnish with fresh parsley leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

This fresh and delicious Orecchiette and Broccoli first course recipe is not only a delight to the senses but also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meals. The combination of tender pasta, crisp broccoli, and a garlic-infused oil sauce make this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a tasty and wholesome pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can create a memorable and satisfying first course that will have everyone asking for seconds.