Spaghetti With Broccoli And Garlic Sauce
A flavorful and quick Italian pasta dish featuring broccoli, garlic, and basil blended with olive oil and Parmesan for a savory, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a blender, combine olive oil, garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese until well blended.
- Toss the hot cooked linguine with the blended sauce.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, then chop into small pieces.
- Mix the broccoli into the pasta and sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a hint of heat. If you don't have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Fresh basil works wonderfully, but dried basil can also be used in a pinch. Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining, as it can help adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti with broccoli and garlic sauce garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread, like Basil-Cheese-Tomato Bread, for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Broccoli And Garlic Sauce contains roughly 212 calories, with 8g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
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 other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy taste without dairy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the garlic sauce. You can also serve a spicy olive oil on the side for those who enjoy a kick with their meal.
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).