Description
This simple and flavorful Broccoli Pasta recipe combines tender cooked broccoli with garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese to create a delicious, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The broccoli is cooked and mashed into a flavorful sauce that coats al dente pasta, offering a nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head broccoli (large, cut into small florets)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 12 ounces pasta (such as penne)
Dairy
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5 minutes until tender but still vibrant. Use a slotted spoon or strainer to transfer the cooked broccoli to a bowl, reserving ½ cup of the broccoli cooking water for later use.
- Start the sauce. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the cooked broccoli and the reserved broccoli water to the skillet, cooking for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally and mash the broccoli with a spoon until it forms a chunky sauce.
- Cook the pasta. Using the same pot of boiling water that was used for the broccoli, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Finish the dish. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the mashed broccoli sauce. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more reserved pasta or broccoli water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
- Garnish and serve. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.
- Gluten-free pasta can be substituted to accommodate dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
