Orecchiette Pasta With Broccoli Rabe and Limoncello

Name: Orecchiette Pasta With Broccoli Rabe and Limoncello
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (16 ounce) package orecchiette; 1 ½ cups reserved cooking water, from the pasta; 1 bunch broccoli rabe, washed and chopped into 1-inch pieces; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 6 garlic cloves, cut into thick lengthwise slices; salt and pepper; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 teaspoons fennel seeds; ¼ cup caravella limoncello; 2 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into thin slices

Servings: persons

1
Cook the orecchiette according to the package directions.
2
About a minute or two before the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped broccoli rabe.
3
Before draining the pasta and broccoli rabe, reserve 1 1/2 cups of the cooking liquid.
4
If you place a measuring cup in the colander set in your sink, it will serve as a reminder to reserve the cooking liquid.
5
After reserving the 1 1/2 cups of cooking liquid, drain the pasta and broccoli rabe.
6
Return the drained pasta and broccoli rabe to the empty pot and set on the stove, but dont turn on the burner under it.
7
Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
8
Add the garlic, salt and pepper to taste, the crushed red pepper flakes and the fennel seeds.
9
Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring until just golden brown but not burned.
10
Add the Caravella Limoncello and the reserved cooking liquid.
11
Cook at a low-medium boil, stirring occasionally for 1 minute.
12
Turn the garlic mixture into the pot of pasta and broccoli rabe and stir to combine.
13
Scatter the slices of butter over the top and stir to mix well until the butter melts and the sauce looks creamy.
14
Add salt and pepper to taste.

749

kcal

Calories

Fat

118

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 (16 ounce) package orecchiette, 1 ½ cups reserved cooking water, from the pasta, 1 bunch broccoli rabe, washed and chopped into 1-inch pieces, 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, and more.

Yes, Orecchiette Pasta With Broccoli Rabe and Limoncello falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!