Broccoli Pasta
Indulge in a vibrant and flavorful dish with our broccoli pasta recipe. This dish combines tender pasta with fresh, sautéed broccoli and a light garlic sauce, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
– 200g broccoli florets
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while the cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of broccoli pasta contains approximately 400 calories, 15g of protein, 20g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This estimate is based on a serving size of 200g.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but bright green.
6. Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with broccoli.
8. Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
9. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or use gluten-free pasta if needed. You can also switch out Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
Broccoli pasta pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover broccoli pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. This dish is not recommended for freezing as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; always aim for al dente.
- Using too much salt in the cooking water can overpower the dish.
- Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry sauce.
- Skipping the garlic may result in a lack of flavor.
- Using low-quality cheese can diminish the overall taste.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste your dish before serving to adjust seasoning.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh finish.
- Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or peas.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Is this dish vegan-friendly?
You can make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using a plant-based pasta.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer can work well with this broccoli sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them right before serving.
What can I add to make it more filling?
Consider adding protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or sautéed shrimp to make the dish more hearty.
Conclusion
Broccoli pasta is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. With its quick preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Enjoy this wholesome meal that brings together the goodness of broccoli and pasta!
Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta spaghetti or your choice
- 200 g broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with broccoli.
- Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
