As I stirred the pot, the air filled with an inviting aroma that suddenly whisked me away to the sun-soaked coasts of Italy. This 30-Minute Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli and Chickpeas offers a delightful escape from the mundane, transforming ordinary weeknight dinners into vibrant culinary adventures. With just 10 ingredients, this dish marries the playful shape of orecchiette with the crispness of Brussels sprouts and the hearty goodness of chickpeas, all draped in a creamy kale pepita pesto that will leave your taste buds singing. Not only is it quick to whip up—perfect for those hectic evenings—but it’s also adaptable, catering to both vegan and gluten-free diners alike. Who wouldn’t want a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious? Ready to dive into a bowl of pasta goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Orecchiette Pasta a Favorite?
Simplicity: This recipe requires just 10 ingredients and can be made in only 30 minutes—ideal for any busy night.
Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a delightful medley of tastes as the creamy kale pepita pesto beautifully complements the hearty chickpeas and bright broccoli.
Customizable: Tailor it to your liking! Swap Brussels sprouts for asparagus, or use your favorite greens like spinach for a fresh twist.
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with veggies and plant protein, this dish is perfect for meal planning and offers nutritional benefits without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this vibrant dish satisfies vegetarians and meat-lovers alike—no one will leave the table hungry!
Elevate your pasta nights with this recipe and don’t forget to check out our Skillet Pasta Sun for more quick meal inspo!
Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Orecchiette Pasta – This playful pasta shape holds onto sauces beautifully, making every bite delightful.
For the Vegetables
- Brussels Sprouts – Provides crunch and earthy sweetness; can substitute with green beans or zucchini.
- Kale Stems – Adds a fibrous texture; feel free to replace with any leafy green stems you have at hand.
- Broccolini – Offers a mild bitterness and crunch; standard broccoli works great as a substitute.
For the Pesto Sauce
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Richness is key; opt for a high-quality oil to enhance flavor.
- Creamy Kale Pepita Pesto – Infuses nutty richness into the dish; store-bought pesto is a quick alternative if you're pressed for time.
- White Wine – Elevates the dish’s complexity; vegetable broth can be used for a non-alcoholic version.
For Protein and Toppings
- Chickpeas – A hearty source of plant protein; consider omitting for a lighter dish if preferred.
- Pecorino or Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Provides a creamy, salty finish; skip for a vegan-friendly option.
For Seasoning
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your taste.
Embrace the joy of Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli as you create a vibrant meal that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. As the pasta cooks, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over it to keep it from clumping together.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot (allow it to cool slightly), heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Brussels sprouts, chopped kale stems, and broccolini stems, seasoning them with a pinch of sea salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are nearly tender and slightly golden, bringing out their earthy sweetness.
Step 3: Add Broccolini Florets
Next, gently stir in the broccolini florets and continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the vegetables as they soften; you want them to be tender but still vibrant. The colorful veggies will add a beautiful contrast to your Orecchiette Pasta, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom. Allow it to simmer for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly as the wine reduces slightly. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli and adds a lovely aromatic note.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chickpeas
Lower the heat and add the cooked orecchiette and chickpeas to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chickpeas are well-coated in the flavorful mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through, checking to adjust seasoning with sea salt and black pepper to your taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the pot from heat and serve the vibrant Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli warm. Top each serving generously with creamy kale pepita pesto for added richness, and sprinkle with Pecorino or Parmesan cheese if desired. This delightful dish is not only satisfying but also a beautiful centerpiece for your dinner table!
What to Serve with Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli
Looking to create a full meal that delights the senses and ticks all the boxes for flavor and satisfaction?
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread complements the creamy pesto beautifully while adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
- Arugula Salad: A simple salad of peppery arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate and balances the dish's richness.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These burst of sweetness enhances your pasta dish, adding a pop of flavor and a touch of color.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the pasta brings a refreshing citrus note that elevates all the other flavors wonderfully.
- Grilled Veggies: Charred zucchini or bell peppers offer a smoky element that pairs beautifully with the herbaceous pesto. Their crispy texture adds a lovely contrast to the tender pasta.
- Sparkling Water: Pair this hearty dish with a sparkling water infused with fresh lemon or lime for a refreshing drink that cleanses the palate.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad serves as a sweet end to your meal, harmonizing beautifully with the savory notes of the pasta.
- Panna Cotta: For dessert, consider a creamy panna cotta with a berry coulis; its silky texture and light sweetness make for a perfect finish.
- Rosemary Focaccia: This fragrant, fluffy bread offers a delightful touch and is perfect for sopping up any remaining pesto.
- Pinot Grigio: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio pairs well, enhancing the lovely flavors of the Dijon mustard and earthy tones in the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These creamy Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sautéed vegetables and even the pesto up to 3 days in advance. Simply chop your Brussels sprouts, kale stems, and broccolini, then sauté them, allowing them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain vibrant flavors, store the pesto separately and add it just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions, combine it with the reheated vegetables and chickpeas, and finish with the fresh pesto. This way, you’ll have a nutritious dinner ready in a flash!
Expert Tips for Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli
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Chop Evenly: Make sure all vegetable pieces are roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain crisp.
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Quality Oil: Don’t skimp on the extra-virgin olive oil! A high-quality oil not only enhances flavor but also prevents the pasta from sticking together.
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Mix and Match: Feel free to swap Brussels sprouts for seasonal veggies like asparagus or snap peas. Keeping the core ingredients like orecchiette pasta with broccoli gives a deliciously familiar taste.
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Reserve Pesto: To maximize efficiency, reserve some creamy kale pepita pesto for future meals. It can elevate a salad or sandwich and minimizes waste.
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Mind the Heat: If using gluten-free orecchiette, follow the package instructions for cooking time closely to maintain the best texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy outcome.
How to Store and Freeze Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli
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Fridge: Store any leftover orecchiette pasta with broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while making weekday meal prep a breeze.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. This helps revive the creamy pesto and keep the vegetables tender.
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Note: If you've added cheese, remember that it may alter the texture slightly upon reheating, but the flavor will still be deliciously intact!
Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Variations
Feel free to play with this vibrant dish and make it your own—each adjustment adds a personal touch!
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Vegan Option: Omit Pecorino or Parmesan cheese for a fully vegan experience while maintaining all the rich flavors.
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Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free orecchiette pasta; just adjust cooking time according to the package for the best texture.
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Protein Boost: Spice it up by adding cooked sausage or crispy tofu for an extra protein punch that complements the veggies beautifully.
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Flavor Twist: Use lemon juice and zest in place of white wine to infuse a fresh citrusy brightness that awakens the dish.
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Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts as a crunchy topping for added richness and depth, enhancing the overall dish.
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Heat Level: For some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or toss in sliced jalapeños during cooking to awaken your taste buds.
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Seasonal Veggies: Replace Brussels sprouts with asparagus or snap peas for a delightful seasonal twist that brightens the dish.
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Pasta Variety: Feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like Cauliflower Pasta Ready or even whole grain options for a different texture and flavor experience.
Explore these options and let your culinary creativity shine! Each variation offers a new take on this classic dish, keeping dinner exciting while making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green, without any dark spots or wilting. Fresh broccolini should have vibrant stalks and florets that are tight and green. If substituting, make sure the vegetables are in season for the best flavor and nutritional value.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
You can store any leftover orecchiette pasta with broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating in a skillet with a splash of olive oil helps maintain the creamy texture.
Can I freeze the orecchiette pasta with broccoli?
Certainly! For freezing, portion the dish into individual servings and place them in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it on the stovetop with a little olive oil to keep everything nice and creamy.
What should I do if my pasta is overcooked?
If your orecchiette ends up mushy, try quickly tossing it with some olive oil and fresh vegetables to add texture. Another option is to turn it into a pasta bake by layering it with cheese and baking until bubbly—this can help disguise the overcooking!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This recipe can be easily adapted for vegan and gluten-free diets. If you want to keep it vegan, just omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. For gluten-free, simply switch to gluten-free orecchiette and be sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the brand for optimal texture.
Can pets eat any leftovers of this dish?
While the vegetables and chickpeas are safe, it’s best to avoid sharing with pets due to the added salt, pepper, and garlic that can be harmful to them. Keep their meals pet-friendly to ensure their health!
Creamy Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over it.
- In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced Brussels sprouts, chopped kale stems, and broccolini stems, seasoning with a pinch of sea salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes until nearly tender and slightly golden.
- Gently stir in the broccolini florets and continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
- Pour in a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom. Allow to simmer for about 30 seconds.
- Lower the heat and add the cooked orecchiette and chickpeas to the pot. Toss together until coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning with sea salt and black pepper.
- Serve warm, topped with creamy kale pepita pesto and a sprinkle of Pecorino or Parmesan cheese if desired.
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