Mustard Butter Pasta With Broccoli
A creamy mustard butter pasta with tender broccoli, fresh herbs, and a rich, tangy flavor that suits quick weeknight dinners or elegant casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set out butter to soften, then blend in mustard.
- Slice garlic and pound it in a mortar with a pinch of salt until pulpy.
- Add parsley and chives to the garlic and continue pounding briefly.
- Mix this herb mixture into the softened butter with black pepper.
- In a large pot, boil water with a teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of oil.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water.
- Add broccoli to the pasta if using fresh pasta; if using dried pasta, add broccoli during the last two minutes of cooking.
- When cooked, scoop out the pasta and broccoli and drain well.
- Put the drained pasta and broccoli into a large skillet, allowing some water to dribble in.
- Add the prepared butter and toss over moderate heat until evenly coated.
- Keep heat low so the butter does not bubble or fry.
- Check seasonings and add salt and pepper if necessary before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish. If you're out of Dijon mustard, a mix of yellow mustard and a touch of honey can work in a pinch. For a twist, try adding red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones, but use less.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with your favorite Italian recipes, such as a simple Caprese salad. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top can add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave, as it can alter the texture of the pasta and butter.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mustard Butter Pasta With Broccoli contains roughly 997 calories, with 53g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (1024% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 946mg per serving (41% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettucine or linguini are recommended, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type for best results.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Use a vegan-friendly mustard and replace the pasta with a whole grain or legume-based option to maintain a hearty texture.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make the dish more filling, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas. You could also toss in additional vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
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).