Introduction
Chili Garlic Pappardelle with Smashed Broccoli and Soft Eggs is a delightful dish that balances spicy, savory, and creamy flavors. The wide, flat noodles of pappardelle provide a perfect base for this combination of textures and tastes. With the addition of fresh broccoli and soft-cooked eggs, this recipe transforms an ordinary pasta dish into a memorable meal, ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pappardelle pasta – 12 ounces
Chili garlic sauce – 3 tablespoons
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Broccoli – 1 large head, cut into florets
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Eggs – 4 large
Parmesan cheese – for serving (optional)
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes are required to prepare the ingredients for this delicious dish. This includes chopping the broccoli and mincing the garlic, ensuring everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this recipe is about 20 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend around 30 minutes from start to finish. This recipe serves 4, making it a great choice for a family meal or a gathering with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, take your broccoli and cut it into florets.
Roast the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to ensure they are well-coated, then roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crispy.
Cook the Pasta
While the broccoli is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Pasta and Broccoli
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss to combine, and then add the roasted broccoli. Mix everything well, and if the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Prepare the Soft-Boiled Eggs
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully add eggs and boil for about 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled eggs. Once done, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop cooking. After a few minutes, peel the shells gently.
Serve the Dish
Plate the chili garlic pappardelle with roasted broccoli, and top each serving with a soft-boiled egg. Sprinkle with additional red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Adjusting Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
Alternative Greens
If broccoli is not available, you can substitute it with other greens like asparagus or green beans.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Egg Cooking Time
For slightly firmer yolks, increase the boiling time of the eggs by 1 minute.
Vegan Option
For a vegan version, omit the eggs and consider adding a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for added texture.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
When cooking pappardelle, ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This helps maintain the pasta’s texture and prevents it from becoming sticky.
Sautéing Garlic
To achieve a fragrant garlic flavor, sauté the garlic in olive oil over medium heat until golden, but be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
Smashing Broccoli
For smashed broccoli, blanch it briefly in boiling water, then shock it in ice water to maintain its vibrant green color before smashing gently with a fork or potato masher.
Cooking Soft Eggs
For perfectly soft eggs, simmer them gently for about 6-7 minutes and then transfer them immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking process, resulting in creamy yolks.
Creating a Sauce
Combine melted butter with garlic and red pepper flakes to create a spicy sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta and some pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the noodles.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of pappardelle?
Yes, you can substitute other types of pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle, but the cooking time may vary.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This dish can easily be made vegetarian by omitting any meat and focusing on the vegetables and pasta.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, or peas to add more texture and nutrition.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta and eggs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance, but it is best to cook the pasta fresh for optimal texture. Store the components separately and combine them when ready to serve.
Conclusion
The Chili Garlic Pappardelle with Smashed Broccoli and Soft Eggs is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of spicy garlic, tender pasta, and creamy eggs creates a rich dish that is both simple and elegant. This recipe also allows for substitutions and variations, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
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