Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli Pasta

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Broccoli pasta is the kind of dish that proves healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or boring. This simple combination of pasta, broccoli, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan is a flavorful, satisfying, and nutritious meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy cook or just love wholesome dishes that taste great, this recipe is a perfect go-to.

Broccoli Pasta

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes.

  2. Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the broccoli.

  3. Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable pantry and fridge staples.

  4. Great for Meal Prep: It stores well and reheats beautifully for lunches or busy nights.

What is Broccoli Pasta?

Broccoli pasta is a comforting Italian-inspired dish where broccoli is either lightly steamed or boiled with pasta, then combined with garlic, olive oil, and cheese to make a deliciously creamy (yet cream-free) pasta. It’s a clever way to make vegetables the highlight of a dish while keeping things simple and satisfying.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need for a classic garlic and broccoli pasta. Most ingredients are pantry staples.

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or orecchiette)

  • Salt (for pasta water)

  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

For the Sauce and Broccoli:

  • 1 large head of broccoli (or 4 cups florets), cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Timing & Servings

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Wash and cut the broccoli into small florets. You can also peel and chop the stalks—they’re tender and tasty when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. About 4–5 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets directly into the same pot. Finish cooking until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain both the pasta and broccoli together.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until garlic is golden and fragrant—about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat well. Add some reserved pasta water to help loosen and bind the sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly combined. Add lemon juice if using, then serve hot with extra cheese on top.

Broccoli Pasta

Best Pasta Shapes for Broccoli Pasta

  • Orecchiette: Small “ears” catch broccoli bits perfectly.

  • Fusilli: Spirals help cling to the oil and garlic.

  • Spaghetti: Light and slurpable.

  • Penne or rigatoni: Great for holding broccoli in the tubes.

Avoid overly delicate pasta types that don’t hold up to the chunky broccoli.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Pasta

  • Cut broccoli small: Smaller florets cook quickly and mix well with pasta.

  • Use the pasta water: It helps emulsify the oil and cheese into a silky sauce.

  • Don’t overcook garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter fast. Light golden is perfect.

  • Add lemon: A touch of acidity lifts the dish and brightens the flavor.

  • Grate fresh Parmesan: For the best melt and flavor.

Add-In Variations to Try

This basic recipe is delicious as-is, but also easy to customize.

Protein Additions:

  • Grilled chicken

  • Crispy bacon or pancetta

  • Shrimp or salmon

  • Tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost

Extra Vegetables:

  • Spinach or kale (add with garlic to sauté)

  • Cherry tomatoes (roasted or fresh)

  • Zucchini slices or roasted bell peppers

Make it Creamy:

  • Stir in ½ cup of cream or cream cheese

  • Add a spoon of ricotta for a velvety finish

Make It Vegan

To make broccoli pasta vegan:

  • Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast

  • Skip butter or dairy—stick with olive oil

  • Add protein via chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh

The result is just as delicious and nutrient-dense.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli pasta is a filling main dish, but it pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread or crusty baguette

  • Simple side salad with balsamic vinaigrette

  • Roasted vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts

  • Soup starter: tomato soup or minestrone works great

It’s also a great packed lunch for work or school—just reheat and enjoy.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing:

  • Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

  • Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil.

  • Microwave in 60-second bursts, stirring between to heat evenly.

Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain pasta texture.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Pre-cut broccoli and store in the fridge up to 3 days in advance.

  • Boil pasta ahead, toss with oil, and store separately.

  • Make garlic oil in advance and refrigerate—it intensifies in flavor over time.

  • Combine everything before serving or meal pack in containers.

This dish is ideal for batch cooking and prepping your week’s lunches.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 450–550

  • Protein: 12–18g

  • Carbohydrates: 50–60g

  • Fat: 15–20g

  • Fiber: 6–8g

  • Vitamin C: Over 100% of daily recommended value (from broccoli)

  • Calcium: Good source from Parmesan cheese

Values vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Add it to the boiling pasta water just 3–4 minutes before draining. No need to thaw.

Is broccoli pasta good for kids?

Absolutely. It’s cheesy, familiar, and mild in flavor. Chop broccoli very small for picky eaters.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta, and make sure any seasonings or cheese used are certified GF.

What if I don’t have Parmesan?

Try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Yes, for a richer taste, but olive oil keeps it lighter and heart-healthy.

Conclusion

Broccoli pasta is the perfect balance of comfort food and clean eating. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s hearty, delicious, and nourishing. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables, find quick meal prep options, or whip up a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.