Broccoli With Macaroni(Broccoli Di Zita)
A simple and flavorful broccoli and macaroni dish with light olive oil, perfect for a quick, healthy meal that suits all ages and occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and clean the broccoli.
- Cut the thick stems through the center and across to make 4 pieces from each piece of broccoli.
- Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Add the pasta and broccoli to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 10 minutes for al dente.
- Use a slotted spoon to lift out the broccoli and macaroni mixture and place it in a large bowl.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Pour the light olive oil and reserved water over the broccoli and macaroni.
- Toss lightly to combine.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the pasta. If you can't find mezzani pasta, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will work well. For a vegan twist, substitute the light olive oil with avocado oil and skip the cheese. Always taste while cooking to ensure your broccoli is tender but still vibrant.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served warm and can be accompanied by a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or a light fish. It also makes a delightful side dish for a family gathering or potluck, offering a colorful addition to any table.
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 the pasta and broccoli mixture in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring the broccoli retains its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Macaroni(Broccoli Di Zita) contains roughly 1535 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 171g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% 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, frozen broccoli is a great substitute. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t become mushy.
What spices can I add for more flavor?
You can experiment with various spices. Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a sprinkle of Italian herbs can elevate the dish. A touch of nutmeg also pairs nicely with broccoli, providing a warm, earthy flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the mezzani pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Ensure that the olive oil and any additional seasonings are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).