Broccoli Pasta: A Simple and Flavorful Weeknight Dish

Broccoli Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that combines the freshness of broccoli with the heartiness of pasta. The simple garlic and red pepper flakes add just the right amount of flavor, while the parmesan cheese gives the dish a rich, creamy finish. This dish is quick to make, using only a few ingredients, and is perfect for a busy weeknight or when you want something comforting but healthy.

Why Make This Recipe

Fresh and Nutritious

With broccoli, pasta, and a few pantry staples, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Broccoli provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the pasta adds a satisfying base. It’s an easy way to enjoy a healthy, balanced meal.

Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those times when you want a flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of pasta and broccoli makes it a filling dish that will keep you full and satisfied.

Customizable

This broccoli pasta can be easily customized to suit your taste. You can blend the broccoli into a smooth sauce or mash it for a more rustic texture. You can also adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1 pound broccoli (fresh or frozen): Fresh broccoli is ideal for this dish, but you can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have on hand.
• 12 ounces short pasta: You can use any type of short pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Feel free to swap it for gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil is the base for sautéing the garlic and broccoli. You can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth and flavor to the dish. You can use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes give the dish a mild heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a creamy, salty finish. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or use a vegan cheese alternative if preferred.
• 1 handful basil leaves: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor. You can substitute with fresh parsley or spinach if you prefer.
• Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the flavor of the dish. Adjust them to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the broccoli:
   • Cut the broccoli into small florets. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the broccoli. Boil for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

1. Cook the pasta:
   • In the same pot, add the short pasta and cook according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes to ensure the pasta is al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

1. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes:
   • While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

1. Simmer the broccoli:
   • Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet and pour in 1 cup of the broccoli cooking water. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can mash the broccoli with a fork for a rustic texture, or blend it for a smooth sauce.
2. Combine the pasta and sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the broccoli sauce. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and cook for 1 more minute, adding pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Serve:
   • Transfer the pasta to plates and top with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Broccoli Pasta

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

How to Store Broccoli Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or in a pan with a little olive oil to restore its creamy texture. Note that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so add a splash of water or broth while reheating to loosen it up.

Tips to Make Broccoli Pasta

1. Use pasta water to adjust the sauce: The reserved pasta water is full of starch, which will help the sauce adhere to the pasta. Use it to adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
2. Mash or blend the broccoli: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the broccoli with an immersion blender or in a food processor. If you like a chunkier texture, just mash the broccoli with a fork.
3. Add protein: If you want to make this a more filling meal, consider adding some cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for extra protein.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and omit the parmesan for a vegan-friendly version. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some spinach, zucchini, or peas for extra vegetables.
• Spicy Broccoli Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat, or add some fresh jalapeño slices to the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to make this dish fresh, as the pasta and broccoli may lose some of their texture if stored for too long. However, you can prepare the broccoli and garlic sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the pasta may become mushy when reheated. However, you can freeze the broccoli sauce without the pasta and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet delicious meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. With the creamy sauce, savory garlic, and fresh basil, it’s a comforting dish that can be made in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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