Christine Maass' Broccoli With Rigatoni
A vibrant, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender broccoli, fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter.
- Gently sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir gently until the pan gets very hot.
- Add the chicken broth, cover, and simmer until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Add half the fresh basil and the cooked al dente rigatoni to the skillet; mix thoroughly.
- Transfer to a hot serving dish, then sprinkle with chopped parsley, pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining basil.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a splash of white wine in place of some chicken broth. You can also substitute the broccoli with asparagus or green beans for a different flavor. If you prefer a vegan version, replace the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. To enhance the dish, add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli With Rigatoni as a hearty main dish, perfect alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread. It pairs beautifully with Linda'S 'Angry Chicken On Pasta' for a complete meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish. A light, refreshing white wine complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christine Maass' Broccoli With Rigatoni contains roughly 336 calories, with 30g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (149% of the Daily Value), and calcium (137% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 779mg per serving (34% 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, but be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet. Frozen broccoli may require a shorter cooking time compared to fresh, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make the dish more filling, consider adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. You could also mix in some cooked sausage or pancetta for added flavor. Pairing it with a side of crusty bread will also enhance the meal's heartiness.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative that adds a cheesy taste without dairy. For a nutty flavor, try using finely chopped walnuts or almonds as a topping.
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).