Description
A simple Italian-inspired pasta dish combining tender broccoli, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, and pasta for a quick, comforting vegetarian meal that’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Broccoli
- 350 g pasta, such as penne or orecchiette
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Seasonings and Sauce
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions
- Boil Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Cook Pasta: In the same pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 12 minutes depending on the pasta shape. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: While pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Broccoli and Sauté: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet and gently sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broccoli to warm through.
- Toss Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet with broccoli and garlic. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the olive oil, garlic, and broccoli mixture.
- Finish with Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice to add flavor and slight creaminess. Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to bowls or a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Orecchiette, penne, or spaghetti all work well with this recipe.
- For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
- For a creamier sauce, mash some of the cooked broccoli before combining with the pasta.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Pasta, Vegetarian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
