Description
A quick and delightful meal that combines pasta, fresh broccoli, and a touch of garlic in a light and healthful dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz whole-grain pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, shallots, or nuts like pine nuts or walnuts
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about one minute.
- Add Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and a splash of reserved pasta water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine with Pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet, sprinkle with Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss well, adding more pasta water if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh herbs or extra cheese, and serve hot.
Notes
For added flavor, try using different vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: broccoli pasta, healthy pasta, quick meal, vegetarian recipe, family-friendly dish