Noodles A La Broccoli
A quick, flavorful noodle dish featuring tender broccoli, Parmesan, and nutmeg, perfect for a wholesome vegetarian meal that combines creaminess with vegetable freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the tough skin from the stems of broccoli.
- Cut stems and tops into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil noodles while steaming broccoli for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain noodles and return to the kettle.
- Add broccoli, margarine, nutmeg, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
- Toss until well combined and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider roasting the broccoli instead of steaming it for a nutty taste. You can substitute margarine with olive oil for a healthier option, and if you prefer a different cheese, try using grated Pecorino Romano. Nutmeg adds warmth, but you can replace it with a pinch of garlic powder for a different twist. This recipe is versatile and pairs well with Italian recipes like Garlic Knots(Low-Cal) as a side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Noodles A La Broccoli as a light main dish or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a fulfilling dinner. For a more substantial meal, consider serving with Italian Vegetable Toss or a slice of Quick Tortilla Pizza to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm until heated through. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally, but be careful not to overheat to maintain the texture of the noodles and broccoli.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodles A La Broccoli contains roughly 395 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 13g 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the noodles to avoid excess moisture. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while combining with the other ingredients.
What type of noodles work best for this dish?
You can use any type of noodles or pasta, but I recommend using something like fettuccine or penne for their ability to hold the sauce well. Whole wheat or gluten-free options are also great alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make Noodles A La Broccoli vegan, substitute margarine with a plant-based butter or olive oil, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).