Orecchiette with Broccoli

Steps

1. 1
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before starting.
2. 2
   Cut broccoli florets into small pieces so they blend well with the sauce and coat the pasta.
3. 3
   Heat extra virgin olive oil in a skillet and sauté thinly sliced garlic until fragrant.
4. 4
   Add a pinch of red chili flakes and stir briefly.
5. 5
   Add the broccoli and cook for a couple of minutes.
6. 6
   Sprinkle in lemon zest to add brightness and freshness.
7. 7
   Pour in chicken stock. At the same time, add the orecchiette pasta to the boiling salted water to cook simultaneously for 8 to 9 minutes.
8. 8
   Season the broccoli generously with salt.
9. 9
   When the pasta is al dente, add it to the broccoli along with some starchy cooking water to help create a silky sauce.
10. 10
    Add butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
11. 11
    Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the pasta finishes cooking and absorbs the flavors.
12. 12
    Plate the dish and finish with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.