Broccoli Pasta
Broccoli Pasta is a vibrant, wholesome dish combining tender broccoli florets with perfectly cooked pasta, infused with garlic and red pepper for a touch of heat. The simple, fresh flavors make it ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch, appealing to vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut broccoli into flowerets and peel and slice the stems.
- Cook the pasta until almost done, about 13 minutes remaining.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add chopped garlic and red pepper; stir for one minute.
- Add broccoli to the pan and mix well.
- Add salt and 1/2 cup of water or defatted chicken broth.
- Cover with a tight lid and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain the pasta and mix it with the cooked broccoli and its liquid.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, try adding lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. If you're out of defatted chicken broth, vegetable broth can be a great substitute. You can also add some cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, making it a more filling meal. Consider using whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broccoli pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness. A side salad with mixed greens complements this dish well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or a slice of garlic bread. This dish also fits nicely into Mediterranean recipes, enhancing your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Pasta contains roughly 417 calories, with 10g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2392mg per serving (104% 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 as a convenient option. Just add it directly to the pan, adjusting the cooking time slightly to ensure it's heated through and tender without becoming mushy.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Any pasta works well, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli hold onto the sauce and broccoli better. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed, ensuring it cooks according to package instructions.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any cheese. You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
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).