Broccoli With Olive Oil And Browned Garlic Over Penne*
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender broccoli sautéed with golden garlic and olive oil, perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. Suitable for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and garlic over medium-high heat until the garlic turns a light golden color, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli and sauté until it is dark green and tender-crisp, about 3 minutes.
- Immediately spoon the broccoli, garlic, and oil over cooked pasta.
- Season to taste with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil. If you're out of penne, any pasta shape will suffice; however, Basic Egg Pasta (Pasta All' Uovo) can provide a richer taste. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For added protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving adds a wonderful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Olive Oil And Browned Garlic Over Penne* contains roughly 873 calories, with 25g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1768mg 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, you can use frozen broccoli; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before sautéing. The cooking time may be slightly shorter since frozen broccoli is often blanched, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy taste without the dairy.
What can I do with leftover broccoli?
Leftover broccoli can be added to omelets, frittatas, or mixed into soups for added nutrition and flavor. You can also toss it into a salad or blend it into a smoothie for a healthy boost.
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).