Broccoli Pasta Toss
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this Broccoli Pasta Toss—a simple, flavorful recipe that's both wholesome and satisfying. Perfectly al dente pasta is combined with tender, vibrantly green broccoli florets and tossed in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce for a light yet comforting meal. A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while grated Parmesan cheese melts into a creamy finish. A touch of red pepper flakes balances the dish with a subtle kick, making it irresistibly delicious. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this quick and easy pasta recipe is ideal for busy evenings or whenever you crave a healthy, vegetarian pasta dish with bold flavors. Use reserved pasta water to create the perfect consistency for the sauce, and garnish with extra Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
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Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, bring another pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4
Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and olive oil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 6
Slowly add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the pasta and create a light sauce. You may not need the entire cup, so add gradually and to your preference.
Step 7
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and coats the pasta.
Step 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper, if needed.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1134.5 grams (1134.5g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1258 |
| Total Fat 70.10g | 90% |
| Saturated Fat 22.80g | 114% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
| Cholesterol 80mg | 27% |
| Sodium 3836mg | 167% |
| Total Carbohydrate 112.70g | 41% |
| Dietary Fiber 14.30g | 51% |
| Total Sugars 8.40g | |
| Protein 63.70g | 127% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1109mg | 85% |
| Iron 7mg | 36% |
| Potassium 223mg | 5% |
Source of Calories