Spaghetti with Romanesco Broccoli and Black Olives Recipe

Spaghetti with Romanesco Broccoli and Black Olives Recipe

  • 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 small heads Romanesco broccoli, white cauliflower, or Broccoflower
  • Sea salt
  • 12 oil-cured black olives, pitted and coarsely chopped
  • 1 pound imported thick or regular spaghetti
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup freshly grated pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for serving
  • Ricotta salata, shaved paper-thin
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan and add the onion. Cook over low heat until soft and translucent, about 8 minutes.
  2. Core the cauliflowers and cut into bite-size florets. Add the cauliflower, ¾ cup water, and a touch of salt to the onion; cook at a simmer until the florets are tender but hold their shape. Stir in the olives and simmer until hot.
  3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain.
  4. Toss the pasta with the sauce. Season with pepper to taste. Sprinkle about ¼ cup pecorino over the pasta and gently toss. Top with shavings of ricotta salata. Serve with additional grated pecorino at the table.