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Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli Pasta
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Broccoli Pasta is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dish combining tender pasta with vibrant green broccoli. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers versatile flavors ranging from creamy to zesty. This family-friendly, meal-prep friendly recipe boosts your meal with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants while delivering comforting, wholesome goodness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Pasta of choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) – 12 oz (340 g)
  • Fresh broccoli florets – 3 cups (about 1 medium head)
  • Garlic cloves – 3, minced
  • Olive oil – 3 tbsp
  • Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – 1/2 cup (about 50 g)
  • Red pepper flakes – 1/4 tsp (optional)
  • Lemon juice – 1 tbsp (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic cloves. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta and broccoli.
  2. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions. In the last 3–4 minutes, add the broccoli florets to blanch until tender but still crisp. Drain pasta and broccoli together, reserving some pasta water.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Add the cooked broccoli and sauté for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta to the skillet with garlic and broccoli. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water a spoonful at a time to loosen and help bind the sauce to the pasta.
  5. Final Touches: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and gently toss everything. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the broccoli; keep it slightly crisp for texture and nutrients.
  • Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce coating.
  • Use fresh garlic for better flavor over garlic powder or pre-minced options.
  • Grate your own Parmesan cheese for deeper flavor and better melting.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end to prevent over-salting.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli pasta, easy pasta recipe, healthy pasta, vegetarian, quick dinner, gluten-free pasta option, broccoli recipe

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/broccoli-pasta/