Broccoli Pasta 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Pasta is the ideal balance of comfort and nutrition. The fresh, crunchy broccoli complements the soft, tender pasta, while the garlic and olive oil sauce adds a rich, savory flavor that ties everything together. This dish is not only easy to make but also full of healthy ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied without feeling heavy. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main dish or a side, and you can easily customize it with extra ingredients like cheese, nuts, or herbs to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets

• 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth (or water) and toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta and broccoli.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

5. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta for a burst of brightness and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein to make the dish more filling.

• Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or ricotta on top for a creamy, tangy twist.

• Nutty Flavor: Toast some pine nuts or chopped almonds and sprinkle them on top of the pasta for added texture and flavor.

• Herb Boost: Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for extra herby freshness. You can also use dried herbs if you prefer.

• Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit cheese entirely for a lighter dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to bring back the moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pasta, or you can cook it directly in the boiling pasta water.

2. What other pasta can I use for this dish?

You can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

3. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano directly to the pasta and broccoli mixture while tossing it in the skillet for a cheesy flavor.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the pasta and broccoli in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat and toss with the garlic and olive oil sauce when you’re ready to serve.

5. Is this recipe vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian but not vegan due to the use of Parmesan cheese. To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or include some diced fresh chili peppers to amp up the spice level. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes! You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.

8. How do I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier version, you can stir in a little bit of heavy cream, coconut milk, or even a spoonful of ricotta cheese into the pasta and broccoli mixture.

9. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta would be great substitutes for regular pasta in this dish. Just cook them according to package instructions.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Broccoli Pasta is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want something comforting yet nutritious. With simple ingredients and a delicious garlic and olive oil sauce, it’s a dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twists, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying!