Broccoli Olive Linguine
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender broccoli, briny olives, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepot of boiling, salted water, cook the linguine as per package instructions.
- While the linguine is cooking, heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until softened.
- Add broccoli florets, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Cover and cook for about 6 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
- Drain the cooked linguine and place it in a large serving bowl.
- Add the broccoli mixture and chopped olives to the linguine.
- Toss well to combine, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic-infused olive oil. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Olive Linguine with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Chicken Parmesan for a protein boost. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside steamed asparagus or a fresh cucumber salad. You can also sprinkle extra olives or capers on top for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Olive Linguine contains roughly 188 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 766mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
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 florets. Just add them to the skillet along with the chicken broth and cook until heated through. Frozen broccoli cooks faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What type of olives work best for this recipe?
Ripe black olives or Kalamata olives are great choices for this dish, as they add a nice briny flavor that complements the broccoli and linguine. Feel free to experiment with other varieties like green olives or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular linguine with gluten-free pasta. There are many varieties available made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
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).