Orecchiette with aromatic herbs

Here is a recipe to prepare delicious orecchiette with aromatic herbs in Italian style.

Ingredients

• 320 g of orecchiette (the typical pasta from Puglia)
• A mix of fresh aromatic herbs to taste (basil, parsley, thyme, marjoram, mint)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper as needed
• Fresh or dried chili pepper (optional)
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. Wash the aromatic herbs, dry them and chop finely. Set aside.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette according to the instructions on the package, until they are al dente.
3. Meanwhile, in a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil and add the peeled and slightly crushed garlic cloves (to facilitate their removal later).
4. If you want a spicy touch, you can add finely chopped fresh chili or a sprinkling of dried chili.
5. When the garlic is golden, remove it from the pan and add the chopped aromatic herbs. Sauté briefly.
6. Drain the orecchiette and transfer them to the pan with the aromatic herbs, tossing for a few minutes to flavor them.
7. Season with salt and pepper and, if you like, add grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy this dish that combines the simplicity of pasta with the fresh aroma of herbs.

Curiosity

Orecchiette are a type of pasta originating from the Puglia region in southern Italy. Their name comes from their shape, which resembles that of small ears (“orecchie” in Italian). This dish manages to combine the tradition of Italian pasta with the lightness and freshness of aromatic herbs, creating a harmony of flavors particularly suitable for the spring or summer season.