Description
Broccoli pasta is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines tender pasta with crisp broccoli and aromatic garlic, all brought together with a drizzle of olive oil. This vibrant dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its burst of flavors and eye-catching colors, broccoli pasta is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until vibrant green but crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Add drained pasta and blanched broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently while seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve It Up: Transfer to plates or bowls, drizzle with additional olive oil, and top with more cheese if desired.
- Enjoy: Dig into your delicious creation!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or chickpeas. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.