Macaroni And Broccoli
A vibrant pasta dish featuring tender broccoli, fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal suitable for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut and peel broccoli stems, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Blanch the broccoli flowerets for a few minutes; if large, cut into smaller pieces.
- Chop garlic cloves.
- Saute garlic in olive oil until golden.
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and place it in a large bowl.
- Top the pasta with the garlic, oil, chopped basil, and grated cheese.
- Add the blanched broccoli to the pasta.
- Mix everything well to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or substituting half of the olive oil with melted butter for richness. If you're out of Parmesan, Romano cheese works well too. For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken or shrimp. Ensure the pasta is truly al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot broccoli and garlic.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and broccoli dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a side of roasted vegetables. Consider garnishing with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh touch. It’s also a fantastic addition to any Italian recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Broccoli contains roughly 280 calories, with 12g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2118mg per serving (92% 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 adding it to the dish. Keep in mind that frozen broccoli may cook faster, so adjust your blanching time accordingly.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While short pasta is traditional, linguini also works well, especially if you prefer longer noodles. Choose a pasta shape that can hold onto the sauce and ingredients, such as penne or fusilli, for best results.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, making it a great option for those following vegetarian recipes.
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).