Broccoli Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe
Quick and easy broccoli pasta with garlic and Parmesan cheese. A simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli and Garlic: Wash broccoli and cut into florets. Mince garlic.
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. About 3 minutes before pasta is done, add broccoli florets. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn). Add red pepper flakes (optional). Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Add Parmesan cheese and toss until melted and evenly distributed. If the sauce is too dry, add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add butter (optional) and toss until melted.
- Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts (optional). Serve with lemon wedges (optional).
Notes
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage can be added.
- Vegetable Variations: Asparagus, peas, or spinach can be substituted for broccoli.
- Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs add a nice crunch.
- Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Vegan Option: Omit Parmesan cheese and butter, or use vegan substitutes.
- Garlic Infused Oil: Infuse olive oil with garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Roasting the Broccoli: Roast broccoli for a different flavor profile.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano.
- Make Ahead: Broccoli can be cut into florets and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The garlic can also be minced ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Storage Instructions: Leftover broccoli pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/broccoli-pasta/