Dinner

Tempeh & Broccoli Rabe Orecchiette Recipe

ByJeannette Jaeger February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

Introduction

This Tempeh & Broccoli Rabe Orecchiette is a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that balances the bitterness of broccoli rabe with crispy tempeh and zesty lemon. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for those looking for a plant-based dinner that doesn’t skimp on texture or taste.

A white bowl filled with a pasta dish showing three main layers: at the base, pale cream-colored orecchiette pasta with grooved texture; mixed throughout are pieces of browned, grilled chicken chunks, light tan with caramelized edges; scattered green broccolini florets and stems add a fresh, vibrant contrast, with wilted dark green spinach leaves blending in; thin, off-white shavings of Parmesan cheese are spread over the top, lightly sprinkled with black pepper and red chili flakes. The bowl sits on a blue cloth beside three gold forks on a pale yellow surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb. broccoli rabe, ends trimmed
12 oz. orecchiette
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
8 oz. tempeh, cut into 1/2″ pieces
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Vegan parmesan, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the broccoli rabe and blanch for 3 minutes until bright green and tender. Remove with a slotted spoon or tongs and place in a colander. Press with paper towels to remove excess water, then transfer to a cutting board and chop into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Return the water to a boil and cook the orecchiette pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tempeh pieces and cook until golden and crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Towards the end, break the tempeh into smaller crumbly pieces with a wooden spoon. Remove tempeh from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped broccoli rabe and cook for 1 additional minute. Season with salt, pepper, and a generous pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with ½ cup of reserved pasta water and the lemon juice. Toss everything to combine. Return the tempeh to the skillet and cook just until warmed through. Add more pasta water as needed to thin the sauce and coat the pasta evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve the pasta topped with vegan parmesan and a drizzle of extra olive oil.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish, but adjust the amount to your taste for acidity.
If you prefer less bitter greens, substitute broccoli rabe with broccolini or kale.
For extra depth, marinate the tempeh briefly in soy sauce or tamari before cooking.
Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking.

How to Serve

A white plate sits on a white marbled textured surface with a portion of stuffed pasta shells cooked with wilted dark green leafy vegetables and mixed with a rich sauce that has hints of brown and red spices. The dish is topped with fresh bright green chopped herbs scattered evenly. Next to the plate is a glass filled halfway with a light amber colored drink. A plaid cloth with orange, red, brown, and white checks rests folding slightly on the surface behind the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, while orecchiette is traditional, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well.

How can I reduce bitterness from the broccoli rabe?

Blanching the broccoli rabe as described helps lessen bitterness. Additionally, adding a pinch of sugar or increasing lemon juice can balance the flavors further.