Exquisite Orecchiette with Meatballs, Kale, and Pine Nuts
Pasta and Pizza • European
Description
Exquisite orecchiette with meatballs, kale, and pine nuts
Ingredients
- Conchiglie Pasta 20 oz
- Kale 5 oz
- Pistachios 4 tablespoons
- Lean Beef 20 oz
- Breadcrumbs 5 oz
- Garlic 4 cloves
- Onion 1 piece
- Chili Flakes 1 teaspoon
- Milk 4 tablespoons
- Olive Oil to taste
- Ground Black Pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1
First, let's prepare the meatballs. Place the ground beef in a large bowl, season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk.
Step 2
Peel and finely chop the onion and 2 cloves of garlic, then sauté them in olive oil with salt and pepper (to taste) for 2-3 minutes until golden. Add the chili flakes to the onion-garlic mixture and cook for another 2 minutes. Once ready, add the mixture to the ground beef along with the softened breadcrumbs. Mix well.
Step 3
Then, with wet hands, form the mixture into balls about 1.5-2 cm in diameter. Place them on a lightly greased plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 4
Cook the orecchiette until al dente. Do not drain the water — it will be needed later!
Step 5
Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. First, toast the pine nuts and set them aside. Then add a little olive oil to the skillet and fry the meatballs until golden brown. Add the remaining finely chopped garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6
At the same time, chop the kale, add it to the skillet, and sauté for about 5 minutes with some pasta water.
Step 7
Taste for salt and pepper, and add more spices if necessary, followed by the pine nuts a little later.
Step 8
Drain the cooked pasta, then transfer it to the skillet with the meatballs and mix well over low heat. Add a generous handful of grated Parmesan, a bit of pasta water, and mix again to combine the sauce with the pasta.
Step 9
Serve, sprinkled with grated Parmesan, and enjoy the exquisite flavor!
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