Why Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts Shines

Discover the vibrant flavors of Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts in this easy, delicious, and healthy pasta recipe that combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with a satisfying crunch and bright notes. This dish highlights tender, ear-shaped pasta alongside crisp broccoli and the toasty warmth of hazelnuts, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that make every bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet Elegant: This recipe uses minimal ingredients to create a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Broccoli brings fiber and vitamins, while toasted hazelnuts add heart-healthy fats for a balanced meal.
• Flavor Harmony: The earthy notes of hazelnuts complement the mild bitterness of broccoli, all rounded out by the comforting pasta.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easy to tweak with additional ingredients or dietary tweaks without losing its essence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts recipe serves an important role, whether adding flavor, texture, or color. These simple components keep the dish fresh and vibrant while maintaining a balanced and satisfying taste.

• Orecchiette Pasta: The perfect little ear-shaped pasta holds the sauce and bits of broccoli beautifully in every bite.
• Fresh Broccoli: Adds a bright green color and a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft pasta.
• Toasted Hazelnuts: Provide a nutty, crunchy finish that elevates the dish with texture and depth.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuse a subtle, aromatic base flavor that ties all ingredients together.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds smoothness and richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Introduce a gentle heat to brighten the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): A sprinkle on top lends savory umami and creaminess.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient.

Variations for Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts

This recipe is a wonderful foundation that you can easily customize. Whether you want to make it vegan, add more protein, or enhance the texture, there are plenty of friendly options to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Vegan Twist: Skip the Parmesan and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Added Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to turn this into a heartier meal.
• Other Nuts: Swap toasted hazelnuts with walnuts or pine nuts to switch up the nuttiness.
• Spice it Up: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for extra warmth and depth.
• Green Boost: Mix in baby spinach or kale alongside broccoli for more greens and nutrients.

this …

How to Make Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts

Step 1: Toast the Hazelnuts

Start by spreading the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toasting them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant and golden. Once cool, chop them roughly for that satisfying crunch throughout the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Wash and cut your broccoli into small florets, then blanch in boiling salted water for about 2-3 minutes until vibrant green and just tender. Drain and set aside to keep their color and crispness.

Step 3: Cook the Orecchiette

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the orecchiette according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining, as it will help bind the sauce later.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Combine

In a wide skillet, warm olive oil and gently cook minced garlic until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the blanched broccoli and toss to coat.

Step 5: Finish with Pasta and Hazelnuts

Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet and toss everything together. Use reserved pasta water to help create a silky coating. Stir in the toasted hazelnuts and season generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy the beautiful balance of flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts

• Toast Your Nuts Properly: Keep a close eye when toasting hazelnuts, as nuts can burn quickly and become bitter.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps to create a creamy, well-emulsified sauce without added cream.
• Keep Broccoli Crisp: Blanching broccoli just right ensures it stays vibrant in color and texture, avoiding mushiness.
• Use Fresh Pasta If Possible: If you can find fresh orecchiette, this will elevate the texture and absorb the flavors even better.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on how spicy you like your dish.

How to Serve Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or even fresh lemon zest to brighten the whole plate and add layers of aroma and complexity.

Side Dishes

Keep the meal light by pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A warm, crusty bread can be a delightful companion to soak up any leftover flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in rustic bowls and add a handful of whole toasted hazelnuts on top for visual and texture contrast. Alternatively, place the pasta in a warm serving dish sprinkled with microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover orecchiette with broccoli and toasted hazelnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

While fresh is best, this pasta can be frozen in portions for up to one month. Slightly undercook the pasta before freezing to avoid mushiness when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to regain moisture and ensure the hazelnuts don’t lose their crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orecchiette?

Absolutely! While orecchiette is ideal for its shape and texture, small pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle stand up well to this recipe too.

Are hazelnuts essential, or can I omit them?

Hazelnuts add a distinctive crunch and flavor, but if you’re allergic or prefer not to use them, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy profile.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free orecchiette or another gluten-free pasta variety; just watch the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

You can toast the hazelnuts and blanch the broccoli a day in advance, which makes the assembly process faster when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Orecchiette With Broccoli and Toasted Hazelnuts recipe is a joyful celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, the blend of textures and flavors will make this pasta a new favorite in your kitchen rotation. Give it a try and savor every delightful bite!

Related Posts

• Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp for Quick Dinners
• Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe to Savor Now
• Easy Sausage Stuffed Peppers for Dinner

Print