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Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli

Creamy Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli in 30 Minutes

This 30-Minute Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli features vibrant flavors and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Orecchiette Pasta
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Brussels Sprouts, sliced Can substitute with green beans or zucchini
  • 1 cup Kale Stems, chopped Can replace with any leafy green stems
  • 1 cup Broccolini Standard broccoli works great as a substitute
For the Pesto Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Opt for high-quality to enhance flavor
  • 1 cup Creamy Kale Pepita Pesto Store-bought pesto is a quick alternative
  • 1/2 cup White Wine Vegetable broth can be used for a non-alcoholic version
For Protein and Toppings
  • 1 can Chickpeas, drained Consider omitting for a lighter dish
  • 1/4 cup Pecorino or Parmesan Cheese, optional Skip for a vegan-friendly option
For Seasoning
  • to taste Sea Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • slotted spoon

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Gently stir in the broccolini florets and continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Serve warm, topped with creamy kale pepita pesto and a sprinkle of Pecorino or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 460mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best texture, follow package instructions closely when using gluten-free orecchiette and remember to chop vegetables evenly for even cooking.

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