Broccoli Pasta

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

Broccoli Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that pairs the nutritious goodness of fresh broccoli with the comforting richness of pasta. The broccoli is often sautéed or blanched, then combined with pasta and a simple sauce made from olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The result is a well-balanced meal with tender pasta, crunchy broccoli, and a hint of garlic and cheese that adds flavor without being overwhelming.

The first time I made Broccoli Pasta, I was surprised by how simple and delicious it was. The broccoli added a wonderful texture and freshness, and the garlic-infused olive oil gave the dish a light, aromatic flavor. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can add extra vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or zucchini, mix in some protein like grilled chicken or sausage, or toss in a few red pepper flakes for a little spice. It’s a perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something healthy, yet comforting!

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• Vegetarian meals
• Pasta lovers
• Family-friendly dining

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Broccoli Pasta will become a go-to in your meal rotation:

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh broccoli for a fuss-free meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the broccoli.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Light and Satisfying: A balanced dish that won’t leave you feeling overly full.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to sneak more veggies into your family’s meals.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.
• Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients make this a cost-effective choice.
• Pairs Well: Complements a variety of proteins, from grilled chicken to tofu.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A comforting dish loved by kids and adults alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite variety)
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
• Toasted pine nuts or almonds
• Extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Broccoli: The star of the dish, providing nutrients and a fresh, earthy flavor.
• Garlic and Olive Oil: Classic Italian base for a simple yet flavorful sauce.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a hint of brightness to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a savory and creamy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. Add Broccoli: In the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
4. Drain: Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.

Prepare the Sauce:

5. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
6. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7. Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet.

Finish the Dish:

8. Toss and Coat: Toss the pasta and broccoli in the garlic oil, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
9. Season: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
10. Add Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan and lemon zest for extra flavor.

Serve:

11. Plate and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan, if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Broccoli Pasta:

• As a Main Dish: Serve on its own for a light yet satisfying meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread for a classic Italian dinner.
• With a Side Salad: Add a crisp green salad for extra veggies.
• Topped with Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.
• With Extra Cheese: Sprinkle with more Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for indulgence.
• For Meal Prep: Divide into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
• Family-Style: Present in a large bowl for a shared meal.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats or fish.
• For Potlucks: A crowd-pleasing option that’s easy to transport and serve.

Additional Tips

• Blanch the Broccoli: To keep the broccoli vibrant and tender, blanch it briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately shock it in ice water to stop the cooking process.
• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier twist, try whole wheat pasta. It adds extra fiber and pairs well with the earthy flavor of broccoli.
• Add Garlic and Olive Oil: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil before adding the broccoli to the pan for a flavorful base.
• Top with Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will add a creamy, savory depth to the dish.
• Include Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and gives the pasta a fresh, zesty finish.
• Try a Crushed Red Pepper Flake: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a bit of heat, balancing the creaminess of the pasta.
• Use Pasta Water: Save some of the starchy pasta water before draining. It helps to create a creamy sauce when combined with olive oil and Parmesan.
• Add Protein: Boost the dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for extra protein.
• Make it Vegan: Skip the cheese and use a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top your dish with fresh basil or parsley to add color and a refreshing herbaceous note.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer sauce.
• Vegan Version: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and vegan butter.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Broccoli Pesto Pasta: Blend cooked broccoli with basil, garlic, and olive oil for a unique twist.
• Cheesy Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
• Lemon Garlic Broccoli Pasta: Add extra lemon juice for a zesty flavor.
• Mushroom Broccoli Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic before adding the pasta.
• Nutty Crunch: Garnish with toasted almonds or walnuts for texture.
• Pasta Primavera: Add an assortment of colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.

Special Equipment

• Large Pot: For cooking pasta and broccoli.
• Skillet: To prepare the garlic and olive oil sauce.
• Pasta Tongs: For easy tossing and serving.
• Microplane Zester: To zest the lemon finely.
• Colander: For draining pasta and broccoli.
• Cheese Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it directly to the boiling pasta water.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious gluten-free option.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
4. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
   Nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative works well.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, feel free to add spinach, peas, or any of your favorite vegetables.
6. Is this recipe vegan?
   It can be made vegan by omitting the cheese and using vegan substitutes.
7. What pasta shape works best?
   Any pasta works, but short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well.
8. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
   Toss the drained pasta with a little olive oil if not using immediately.
9. Can I make this dish ahead?
   Yes, prepare and refrigerate; reheat with a splash of reserved pasta water.
10. What can I use instead of olive oil?
    You can use avocado oil, butter, or your preferred cooking oil.

Conclusion

Broccoli Pasta is a simple and healthy dish that combines the richness of pasta with the freshness and nutrients of broccoli. The broccoli is typically blanched or sautéed, then mixed with pasta in a light olive oil or garlic sauce. The addition of Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chili flakes can enhance the flavor profile, making it a satisfying meal that’s both light and full of texture.

This dish can be customized in many ways by adding ingredients like grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side to complement other main dishes. You can also make it creamier by incorporating a bit of heavy cream or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

I can’t wait to see how your Broccoli Pasta turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!