Broccoli And Feta Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender broccoli and creamy feta cheese, perfect for a quick, wholesome meal that appeals to vegetable lovers and cheese enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute broccoli in olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add dried thyme, chicken broth, butter, and fresh ground pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and add crumbled feta cheese.
- Heat gently, do not boil.
- Toss with cooked pasta and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding garlic or red pepper flakes while sautéing the broccoli. If you don't have feta cheese, crumbled goat cheese can be a great substitute. You can also use fresh thyme instead of dried for a brighter taste. Don't overcook the broccoli; it should be tender but still vibrant and crunchy.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli and Feta Pasta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, such as Greek Marinated Chicken With Feta Cheese, for a complete meal. Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top can elevate the dish even further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Feta Pasta contains roughly 657 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before sautéing to avoid excess moisture. Adjust cooking time as needed, as frozen broccoli may cook faster than fresh.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini work best for this dish, as they hold onto the sauce and ingredients well. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it doesn't include any meat. You can enhance the flavors by adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).