Linguine With Broccoli And Tomatoes
Linguine with broccoli and tomatoes offers a vibrant, fresh flavor combination, perfect for a quick, wholesome vegetarian meal packed with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of red pepper.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook linguine according to package instructions without adding salt. Slice tomatoes lengthwise into four slices and cut into thin strips.
- About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add broccoli florets and cook until tender and pasta is al dente.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of pasta water into a large bowl. Add the pressed garlic to the water.
- Drain pasta and broccoli, then transfer to the bowl. Add the sliced tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, salt (if using), crushed red pepper, and olive oil.
- Toss everything together to combine and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh basil or oregano to complement the tomatoes and broccoli. If you want a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream can be added after tossing. Substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Ensure to cook the broccoli just until tender to maintain a vibrant color and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an Italian twist, consider serving alongside Italian Dunkers or a light white wine to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguine With Broccoli And Tomatoes contains roughly 133 calories, with 8g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2026mg per serving (88% 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 works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pasta, as frozen vegetables can release extra water. This can save time and still provide the nutritional benefits and flavor of fresh broccoli.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the linguine with a gluten-free pasta variety, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta. Ensure that the other ingredients, including the Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a similar taste and texture without gluten.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be excellent additions to make this a heartier meal. Cook the protein separately and mix it in just before serving to combine the flavors. This also makes for a satisfying option for those looking for vegetarian recipes with added protein.
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).