Pasta Broccoli
Creamy pasta with tender broccoli, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and feta cheese creates a vibrant, satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners and vegetable lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over high heat.
- Add chopped onion and broccoli florets; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add water, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring once.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for 3 minutes longer or until broccoli is tender.
- Place cooked pasta in a large bowl.
- Add the broccoli mixture, crumbled feta cheese, and reserved pasta water.
- Stir until the mixture is blended and creamy.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving. For a creamier texture, you can substitute Feta with goat cheese or ricotta. If you prefer a protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added. For a spicy kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes. This dish works well with seasonal vegetables, so feel free to experiment with what's available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a light side salad, such as Tomato And Cucumber Salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a more substantial feast, consider serving it alongside Roasted Winter Vegetables for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. The pasta may absorb some moisture, so adding a bit of olive oil or extra water can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Broccoli contains roughly 702 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 466mg per serving (20% 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 can be a convenient substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture. While fresh broccoli offers a crisper texture, frozen broccoli will still provide great flavor and nutrition in this dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative like tofu feta or nutritional yeast for added flavor. Additionally, ensure that your pasta is egg-free, as some varieties contain eggs. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but smaller shapes like penne or fusilli are excellent choices as they hold the sauce and broccoli pieces well. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for a healthier or dietary-compliant option, allowing for versatility in this dish.
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).