Pasta With Broccoli And Garlic(Yields 8 Servings)
A vibrant pasta dish featuring tender broccoli, fragrant garlic, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suited to vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta al dente in boiling salted water, then drain.
- Steam broccoli for 2 minutes, then rinse under cold water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for 1 minute.
- Add sliced garlic and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add steamed broccoli to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta and butter to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until well mixed and warmed through.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: add cooked shrimp for extra protein.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing. If you're out of fresh broccoli, frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute; just ensure it's thawed and drained well. You can also swap olive oil for a light butter or a blend of oils for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal, or pair it with a fresh green salad. It also goes well with grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a versatile dish for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This recipe is a delightful complement to Italian recipes, especially when topped with freshly grated Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat to prevent drying out, stirring until warmed through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Broccoli And Garlic(Yields 8 Servings) contains roughly 184 calories, with 7g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the butter and using a plant-based alternative. Additionally, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute to maintain the flavor without dairy.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While rotelle or ziti works well, you can also use penne, farfalle, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture in this dish.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
To boost the protein content, you can add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. These additions will complement the broccoli and garlic beautifully, making the dish heartier.
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).