Broccoli Pasta
Broccoli pasta is a vibrant and nutritious dish that showcases the delightful combination of tender broccoli and al dente pasta, all tossed in a light sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal choice for a healthy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on the go, this dish will please everyone at the table and can be customized to suit your taste preferences!
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 150g broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste, then serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. You can also use other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to add variety. For a vegan version, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Broccoli pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. Consider serving with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, or a light white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can result in mushy texture.
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water can make the dish dry.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the flavors.
- Skipping the cheese can reduce creaminess.
- Not draining the pasta well can lead to a watery dish.
- Cooking broccoli too long can make it lose its vibrant color.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
- Try adding lemon juice for a zesty kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
- Consider adding nuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish for the best results.
What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta can work, but spaghetti or fettuccine are excellent choices due to their ability to hold the sauce well.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Broccoli pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to enhance the protein content of the meal.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
What are some variations I can try?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or swap out the cheese for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this delicious broccoli pasta without gluten.
Conclusion
Broccoli pasta is a flavorful and nutritious dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with other sides, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds while keeping your meals healthy and satisfying.
Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 150 g broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste, then serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.
