Looking for a delicious and easy pasta dish? Look no further than this flavorful broccoli pasta recipe! Packed with vibrant flavors and simple to make, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering taste.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: This broccoli pasta reheats beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prepping.
Ingredient Notes:
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- Yellow onion: Provides a savory base for the sauce.
- Broccoli: Adds a nutritious and vibrant element to the pasta.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty and salty flavor to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, salt, pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until onion is soft.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk, then add pasta. Cook until pasta is almost tender.
- Add broccoli and lemon juice, cooking until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley or basil.
- Serve with additional cheese and herbs.
Helpful Tips:
- For a creamy sauce, add more milk as needed.
- Swap out whole wheat pasta for gluten-free or regular pasta if desired.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli to maintain its bright green color.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this broccoli pasta with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
- How can I make this dish vegan? Substitute the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based milk and cheese alternative.
- Can I add protein to this dish? Yes, cooked chicken or shrimp would be a delicious addition.
Conclusion:
Try out this broccoli pasta recipe for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy the delicious flavors this dish has to offer!
Print
Broccoli Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and flavorful broccoli pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small yellow onion, 1/4-inch diced
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional; reduce to 1/8 teaspoon if sensitive to spice)
– 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus additional as needed
– 1 1/2 cups nonfat milk or milk of choice
– 8 ounces dry whole wheat pasta (such as ziti, rotini, rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
– 1 medium head broccoli, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chicken broth, milk, pasta, and broccoli. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley or basil. Serve hot with additional Parmesan and herbs.
Notes
– For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end.
– Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a protein boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 25mg