Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa (Puglia): Made with broccoli rabe, garlic, and anchovies

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa: A Puglian Culinary Treasure

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa is a beloved dish from the Puglia region of Italy, celebrated for its rustic simplicity and robust flavors. This traditional recipe features orecchiette pasta paired with cime di rapa (broccoli rabe), garlic, and anchovies, creating a delightful harmony of bitter, savory, and aromatic elements. Known as a quintessential example of cucina povera (peasant cooking), this dish highlights the creativity of Italian cuisine in transforming humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

The Origins of Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

Puglia, the “heel” of Italy’s boot, is a region known for its fertile plains and agricultural abundance. Orecchiette, meaning “little ears,” is a pasta shape native to this area, designed to catch sauces and ingredients perfectly. Cime di rapa, a bitter green vegetable akin to broccoli rabe, thrives in Puglia’s Mediterranean climate and is a staple of the local diet. The combination of these ingredients in Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa reflects the region’s resourcefulness and deep connection to the land.

Key Ingredients

The simplicity of Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa relies on the quality and balance of its ingredients:

1. Orecchiette Pasta: This iconic pasta shape is the heart of the dish, offering a tender yet chewy texture.
2. Cime di Rapa: Known for its slightly bitter and peppery flavor, it provides the dish with its distinctive taste.
3. Garlic: Sautéed to release its aroma and infuse the oil with a warm, savory note.
4. Anchovies: Melted into the sauce, they add a subtle umami depth without overpowering the other flavors.
5. Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for creating a rich, flavorful base.
6. Red Chili Flakes: A touch of heat balances the bitterness of the greens and adds a subtle kick.
7. Salt and Pepper: To enhance and bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

How to Make Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 400g (14 oz) orecchiette pasta
• 500g (1 lb) cime di rapa (broccoli rabe), trimmed and washed
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 4 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cime di Rapa
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cime di rapa and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the greens to a bowl, reserving the cooking water for the pasta.
2. Cook the Pasta
   • In the same pot of boiling water, cook the orecchiette until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Prepare the Sauce
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
   • Stir in the anchovy fillets, breaking them up with a spoon until they dissolve into the oil.
   • Add the red chili flakes (if using) and mix well.
4. Combine the Ingredients
   • Add the cooked cime di rapa to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   • Toss the drained orecchiette into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light, cohesive sauce.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   • Divide the pasta among plates and drizzle with a bit more olive oil. Serve immediately, garnished with additional chili flakes if desired.

Tips for Perfect Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cime di rapa and high-quality olive oil are essential for the dish’s authentic flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Greens: Blanching the cime di rapa preserves its vibrant color and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
• Balance the Salt: The anchovies are naturally salty, so taste before adding additional salt.

Variations of Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

While the traditional recipe is cherished, variations can add a unique twist to this classic dish:

1. Vegan Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa
   • Omit the anchovies and add capers or olives for a briny flavor.
2. Cheesy Addition
   • Sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan over the finished dish for a creamy touch.
3. Protein Boost
   • Add cooked sausage or pancetta for a heartier version.
4. Alternative Greens
   • Substitute cime di rapa with kale or spinach if broccoli rabe is unavailable.

Cultural Significance

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa is more than just a dish; it is a symbol of Puglian identity and culinary tradition. Often prepared during family gatherings and festive occasions, it reflects the region’s respect for seasonal produce and artisanal pasta-making. The dish’s enduring popularity both in Italy and abroad speaks to its universal appeal and timeless quality.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa experience, consider these complementary pairings:

• Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Dessert: Follow the meal with a classic Italian dessert like almond biscotti or lemon sorbet.