Teresa's Recipes
Broccoli and Garlic Pasta
Indulge in this vibrant and wholesome Broccoli and Garlic Pasta, a delightful dish that marries al dente pasta with the earthy flavors of sautéed broccoli and the aromatic punch of garlic. This quick and easy meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. The heat from red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevates the dish into pure comfort food bliss. Originating from the Italian tradition of tossing pasta with seasonal vegetables, this recipe captures the essence of simplicity and freshness.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (spaghetti or your choice) Pasta
- 2 cups, cut into florets Broccoli
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste) Red pepper flakes
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 54g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden (be careful not to burn it).
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and bright green. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss once more to combine and serve immediately.
Tips
- For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.
- For protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make this dish more filling.