Ziti with Fresh Broccoli Sauce
Transform your weeknight pasta routine with this vibrant and creamy Ziti with Fresh Broccoli Sauce! This easy recipe features tender ziti pasta coated in a luscious, homemade sauce made from nutrient-rich broccoli, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a touch of heavy cream for richness. Highlighted with a zing of fresh lemon zest and a hint of warming red pepper flakes, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy evenings. Serve it up as a satisfying vegetarian main course, and don’t forget a sprinkle of extra parmesan for the finishing touch. Whether you're looking to sneak more vegetables into your meals or try something fresh and flavorful, this ziti recipe deserves a place at your table!
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Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 quarts water for boiling pasta
Directions
Step 1
Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the water.
Step 2
Add the ziti pasta to the pot and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
Step 3
While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets by placing them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender.
Step 4
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 5
Transfer the steamed broccoli to a food processor or blender. Add the sautéed garlic, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 6
Pour the broccoli sauce into the large skillet and set it over low heat. Stir in the red pepper flakes, if using.
Step 7
Add the drained ziti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the broccoli sauce. Add more reserved pasta water if the sauce appears too thick.
Step 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 9
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 4858.9 grams (4858.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2698 |
| Total Fat 138.10g | 177% |
| Saturated Fat 68.40g | 342% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g | |
| Cholesterol 320mg | 107% |
| Sodium 3908mg | 170% |
| Total Carbohydrate 277.80g | 101% |
| Dietary Fiber 28.10g | 100% |
| Total Sugars 16.50g | |
| Protein 88.30g | 177% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1143mg | 88% |
| Iron 16mg | 88% |
| Potassium 70mg | 1% |
Source of Calories