Quick & Healthy Broccoli Pasta
A vibrant and nutritious pasta dish featuring fresh broccoli, aromatic garlic, and tangy lemon, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Pasta and Broccoli
- 350 g dried short pasta Choose your favorite shape for this delightful dish.
- 2 heads broccoli Fresh and vibrant, packed with nutrients.
Sauce Ingredients
- 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Enhances the sauce's richness.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced; infuses the pasta with aromatic goodness.
- 2 tsp lemon zest Brightens the dish with a zesty kick.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice Balances flavors with refreshing acidity.
- 1/3 cup parmesan Finely grated; adds depth.
- 1 tsp mixed dried herbs Elevates the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Offers a hint of heat.
- 1 tsp sugar Smooths out acidity.
- 3/4 tsp salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
- 1/2 tsp pepper Adds warmth and depth.
- More for serving parmesan A sprinkle of cheesy goodness.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the dried short pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Broccoli
- Wash the broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets, and peel the stems if necessary.
Sautéing Garlic & Broccoli
- In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
Combining Ingredients
- Reduce the heat to low, stir in the cooked pasta along with lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and mixed dried herbs.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water gradually until achieving desired sauce consistency.
Adding Cheese & Serving
- Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and finely grated parmesan, tossing gently to combine.
- Allow the heat to slightly melt the cheese, making the dish creamy and rich.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnishing
- Plate your Quick & Healthy Broccoli Pasta and finish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Enjoy your dish warm!
Notes
For extra tender broccoli, blanch in pasta water before draining. To boost protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. Experiment with different cheeses.