Broccoli And Zucchini Pasta
A vibrant, healthy pasta dish featuring broccoli and zucchini, flavored with garlic and herbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam broccoli in a small amount of water or in a steamer basket until crisp-tender, about 7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Make a sauce by stir-frying garlic and zucchini in olive oil until zucchini is barely tender.
- Add dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- Melt butter into the sauce, then add the steamed broccoli.
- Toss the sauce with cooked spaghetti and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can substitute zucchini with other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus. If you prefer a creamier sauce, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese. To enhance the dish, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors well. For a vegetarian twist, serve with a side of roasted vegetables for an extra dose of nutrients.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out, and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Zucchini Pasta contains roughly 129 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 13g 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, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish. Frozen vegetables can sometimes release excess water, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to maintain the right texture.
What if I don’t have spaghetti or ziti?
You can substitute any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you choose.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the butter and Parmesan cheese. You can enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and use a plant-based oil for sautéing. This will still provide a delicious and satisfying meal without any animal products.
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).