Broccoli With Rigatoni
A vibrant and savory broccoli and rigatoni dish infused with garlic, basil, and cheese, perfect for a comforting and flavorful vegetarian meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 8 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of butter, and minced garlic until the pan gets very hot.
- Add 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer until the broccoli is al dente.
- Add half of the chopped fresh basil and the drained, hot rigatoni to the skillet; mix thoroughly.
- Transfer to a hot serving dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley, pepper, grated cheese, and remaining basil.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. You can also substitute the broccoli with asparagus or green beans for a different twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially if using salted butter or cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional grated cheese and fresh basil for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or a side of Tina'S Spinach And Garlic Pasta Sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Rigatoni contains roughly 299 calories, with 10g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but reduce the cooking time since it's already blanched. Add it to the skillet after the broth has heated, and cook until heated through and tender. Fresh broccoli will have a better texture, but frozen is a convenient alternative.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Parmesan cheese is a classic choice as it adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the broccoli and pasta. However, you can also use pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or mozzarella for a creamier texture. Grate the cheese fresh for the best flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broccoli and sauce in advance, storing them separately. Cook the rigatoni just before serving for optimal texture. Combine everything and reheat gently to maintain the dish's integrity.
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).