Orecchiette with broccoli peas and cheese
This dish is inspired by Southern Italian Mediterranean cooking, where orecchiette (“little ears”) catch the sauce beautifully. Tender broccoli and sweet peas are tossed with garlicky olive oil, finished with cheese for creaminess. It’s light, balanced, and perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
🕒 Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
🥗 Ingredients
200 g orecchiette pasta
1½ cups broccoli florets (small pieces)
½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper
½ cup grated cheese
Parmesan (classic) OR
Pecorino Romano (stronger Mediterranean flavor)
Zest of ½ lemon (optional but recommended)
Optional Add-ins
Toasted breadcrumbs (Italian style crunch)
Fresh basil or parsley
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook Pasta & Veggies Together
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
Add orecchiette and cook according to package instructions
Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes
Add peas during the last 1 minute
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain
2. Make the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat
Add garlic and chili flakes, sauté 30–40 seconds until fragrant
3. Combine
Add drained pasta and vegetables to the pan
Splash in some reserved pasta water
Toss gently until glossy
4. Finish with Cheese
Remove from heat
Stir in grated cheese and lemon zest
Season with salt & pepper
5. Serve
Garnish with herbs or breadcrumbs
Add extra cheese if desired
💡 Tips
Cut broccoli small so it melts into the pasta
Use whole-wheat orecchiette for extra fiber
For extra protein, add white beans or chickpeas
Keep heat low when adding cheese to avoid clumping
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Is this weight-loss friendly?
Yes — lots of vegetables, moderate cheese, olive oil fats.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes — replace cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely — grilled chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans work beautifully.
🧮 Nutritional Information
Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 16 g
Carbs: 50 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 8 g