ORECCHIETTE E CIME DI RAPA
Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa (Orecchiette with Turnip Tops):
Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa is a quintessential dish from the Puglia region in southern Italy, celebrated for its simplicity and rich, earthy flavors. This pasta dish features orecchiette, small ear-shaped pasta, paired with tender turnip tops, garlic, chili pepper, and anchovies.
To prepare this dish, the orecchiette are cooked until al dente, while the turnip tops are blanched and sautéed with garlic and anchovies to create a savory and aromatic sauce. The chili pepper adds a gentle kick, balancing the dish with a subtle heat. The final touch is a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, enhancing the flavors and tying together the elements of this classic Puglian recipe.
For a perfect pairing with Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa, consider a medium-bodied white wine such as Fiano , Bombino or Falanghina. The crisp acidity and citrus notes of these wines complement the earthy bitterness of the turnip tops, while their bright, fruity undertones enhance the overall dining experience. The result is a delightful harmony that brings out the best in both the pasta dish and the chosen wine, creating a true taste of Puglia.
