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–+ servings
A bowl of tasty broccoli pasta garnished with Parmesan cheese and herbs.

Garlicky Broccoli Pasta

A quick and satisfying dish featuring pasta tossed with garlicky broccoli and a splash of starchy pasta water.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or shells)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, trimmed Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional; substitute Pecorino Romano if you like a sharper note
  • to taste Fresh basil leaves, torn Optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Salt the water generously.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, scoop out and reserve 1/4 cup of the hot pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta.
Cooking
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Swirl to coat the pan.
  2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 to 6 minutes until bright green and tender.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss with the broccoli. If the mixture seems dry, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the desired silky consistency is achieved.
  5. Serve immediately, sprinkled with grated Parmesan and torn basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2g

Notes

For extra color, add a teaspoon of lemon zest at the end. This dish does not freeze well; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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