Pasta & rice main dishes

Orecchiette with turnip greens cream

⏱ 30 min🍳 15 min👤 4 pp★★☆☆☆

Orecchiette with turnip tops are a great classic of Apulian cuisine. In Puglia, there is no mother or grandmother who does not know how to prepare them to perfection. The important thing is to have very fresh turnip greens! If you find yourself out of the way, can't find turnip greens or want to try a "gourmet" version of this extraordinary Apulian classic, you can try these orecchiette with turnip greens cream. Guaranteed Apulian products, for a truly top result!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving

Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
58g
Fat
28g
Fiber
3g

* approximate values per serving

Information
30 minutes Total time
15 minutes Active time
Serves 4 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Bring the water to a boil in a large pot and pour the orecchiette together: add salt and cook until al dente. Meanwhile, pour a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, garlic, chilli pepper and anchovies into a saucepan, which you will keep on low heat until the garlic has browned. This step is optional, because the cream is already very good and very delicate without having to flavor it further. Once the garlic has been removed, add the turnip greens cream, let it flavor and turn off the heat. Drain the pasta, transfer it to the pan with the sauce already prepared and let it flavor again, stirring for a few minutes. Finally, spread the orecchiette on the plates, adding a drizzle of raw extra virgin olive oil, an anchovy and a little breadcrumbs previously browned in a non-stick pan with extra virgin olive oil.
Serve with a good glass of PGI Rosé wine.

Tips
Pay attention to the temperature of the oil: never let the garlic burn and remove it as soon as it has given its pleasant scent to the dish.
Trivia
When turnip greens bloom, they produce beautiful yellow flowers. It is no coincidence that in Puglia at the end of winter you can come across suggestive expanses of yellow flowers.

Step by step

Pour the turnip greens cream into the pan
Pour the turnip greens cream into the pan
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Potato Cream

A variant of the classic Apulian dish is represented by Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Potato Cream. In this preparation, the potatoes are cooked together with the orecchiette, creating a creamy texture and an even richer flavor. To make this version, simply cut the potatoes into cubes and add them to the boiling water along with the pasta. By cooking together, the potatoes will release their starch, making the broccoli rabe cream even more velvety. This dish is ideal for those who want a hearty and nutritious meal, perfect for cold winter days. Serve the orecchiette with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crunchy touch.

Orecchiette with Apulian Broccoli Rabe Cream

The preparation of Orecchiette with Apulian Broccoli Rabe Cream is a great classic of regional cuisine. This variant celebrates the authentic flavors of Puglia, where broccoli rabe is a fundamental ingredient. To get the most out of the dish, it is important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The traditional recipe involves cooking the broccoli rabe in salted water, which will then be blended to obtain a smooth cream. The orecchiette, with their shell-like shape, perfectly hold the cream, offering a perfect balance between the sweetness of the broccoli rabe and the strong flavor of the oil and garlic. This dish represents a true celebration of Apulian gastronomy.

Light Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream

For those who are mindful of their weight, here is a light version of Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream. In this preparation, one can opt for a broccoli rabe cream made without the addition of anchovies and with a reduction of extra virgin olive oil. Using only broccoli rabe, garlic, and a bit of chili pepper, a light yet flavorful cream can be achieved. Additionally, traditional orecchiette can be replaced with a whole grain or gluten-free version, making the dish even healthier. This variant is perfect for those who want to enjoy a typical dish without sacrificing lightness and health.

Benefits of Broccoli Rabe in Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream

Broccoli rabe, the main ingredient in Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream, is rich in nutritional properties. This leafy green vegetable is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as containing minerals like calcium and iron. Its consumption is associated with numerous health benefits, including support for the immune system and promotion of bone health. Furthermore, broccoli rabe is low in calories, making it a great choice for those who are mindful of their diet. A plate of Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream provides about 350-400 calories, depending on the portions and ingredients used, offering a nutritious and balanced meal.

Can Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream be frozen?

The answer is yes, it is possible to freeze Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe Cream, but with some precautions. It is advisable to freeze the dish before adding the final seasoning, such as extra virgin olive oil and breadcrumbs, to maintain the flavors and texture. After cooking the orecchiette and preparing the cream, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a suitable airtight container for freezing. The orecchiette can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When ready to consume, thaw slowly in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan, possibly adding a drizzle of fresh oil to revive the flavor.