Fettucini Broccoli
Fettucini Broccoli combines tender pasta with sautéed broccoli and a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with garlic and herbs. This dish offers a delightful blend of flavors, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal that appeals to both vegetable lovers and pasta fans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the fettucini noodles.
- Meanwhile, in hot salad oil, sauté the crushed garlic and thawed broccoli for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, dried basil, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, cottage cheese, and a dash of pepper.
- Stir over low heat until blended, about 2 minutes.
- Toss the broccoli mixture with the cooked noodles and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt. If you're short on time, you can use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen, just blanch them briefly. Sautéing the garlic until fragrant before adding the broccoli enhances the flavor. For added depth, try mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions
This fettuccini broccoli dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a side of garlic bread for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving alongside chicken recipes like Chicken Francaise or Simple Chicken Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the fettuccini broccoli in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fettucini Broccoli contains roughly 198 calories, with 10g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just blanch the florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing to ensure they cook evenly. Fresh broccoli will add a vibrant crunch to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fettuccini and broccoli mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this fettuccini broccoli vegetarian, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The other ingredients are already vegetarian-friendly, allowing you to enjoy this dish without meat.
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).