Orecchiette with broccoli and fresh sausages

Orecchiette with Broccoli and Fresh Sausages

Discover the delight of a pasta recipe that combines the intense flavors of fresh sausages with the freshness of broccoli. Orecchiette with broccoli and sausages is a fantastic choice for a quick yet flavorful dinner. This recipe not only satisfies your pasta cravings but also offers a nutritious mix thanks to the vegetables. Whether you prepare it for a relaxed evening at home or to impress friends, this dish is guaranteed to be appreciated.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g broccoli
- 500 g orecchiette pasta (or any short pasta)
- 350 g fresh sausages (preferably pork or chicken)
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chili paste

Recipe History:
This pasta originates from the southern region, where culinary traditions emphasize fresh ingredients and simple yet tasty combinations. Orecchiette, which means "little ears" in Italian, gets its name from its distinctive shape that holds sauces perfectly. Broccoli, on the other hand, is a versatile and healthy vegetable, rich in vitamins and minerals. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is both hearty and colorful.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by washing the broccoli. Cut it into small florets so it cooks evenly.
- Remove the casing from the sausages and cut them into small pieces.
- Mince or finely chop the garlic clove.

2. Boiling the broccoli:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous tablespoon of salt, which will help flavor the vegetables.
- When the water starts to boil, add the broccoli florets. Let them boil for 10 minutes until tender yet crisp.
- Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon and set it aside. You can let it cool slightly and then chop it finely if you prefer.

3. Cooking the pasta:
- In the same water you boiled the broccoli, add the orecchiette pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 9 and 12 minutes, until al dente.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Preparing the sausages:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sausages and minced garlic.
- Sauté the sausages until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. If you want to add a bit of spice, now is the time to add the chili flakes or chili paste.

5. Combining the ingredients:
- When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the sausages.
- Add the chopped broccoli, mix well, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For extra flavor, add the grated parmesan and stir until it melts and coats all the ingredients.

6. Serving:
- Serve the orecchiette hot, sprinkled with a bit of extra parmesan if desired.
- This dish pairs excellently with a light green salad or a tomato and garlic stew on the side.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of sausages: beef or turkey sausages are excellent alternatives.
- If you like a stronger flavor, you can add some olives or capers for a salty note.
- Orecchiette can be replaced with any other type of short pasta, such as penne or fusilli, depending on your preferences.
- The recipe can be adapted for those who prefer a vegetarian dish; simply replace the sausages with tofu or sautéed mushrooms.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is balanced, providing a good source of protein from the sausages, carbohydrates from the pasta, and vitamins from the broccoli. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative and can be used directly without needing to thaw it beforehand.

2. How can I make the recipe easier to prepare?
- You can prepare larger quantities of broccoli and sausages in advance, keeping them in the fridge for later use in a meal.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
- A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices to accompany orecchiette with broccoli and sausages.

Take the opportunity to experiment with this simple yet delicious recipe of orecchiette with broccoli and fresh sausages. Whether you make it for an everyday meal or a special occasion, we are sure it will quickly become one of your favorites! Enjoy!