Broccoli Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a bowl of Broccoli Pasta. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the kitchen was filled with the most inviting aroma of sautéed onions and garlic. It was a chilly evening, and we were all craving something warm and hearty. As I stirred the creamy mixture, the vibrant green of the broccoli florets brightened the dish, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The kids were initially skeptical about having green vegetables in their pasta, but one taste and they were hooked! This dish quickly became a family favorite, and I love how it effortlessly combines wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, Broccoli Pasta never fails to impress.

Broccoli Pasta Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients can make all the difference in creating a flavorful dish. In Broccoli Pasta, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that creamy, comforting texture and vibrant taste. The star of the show is undoubtedly broccoli, which adds a fresh crunch and a burst of color. We also have butter to create a rich base, along with onion and garlic for aromatic depth. The combination of chicken broth and milk creates a luscious sauce that brings everything together beautifully.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
• 1 small yellow onion, ¼-inch diced – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a fragrant aroma.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – Infuses the dish with a blend of herbs.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional, for a hint of heat.
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups nonfat milk – Adds creaminess without heaviness.
• 8 ounces dry whole wheat ziti, or similar pasta – The main component that soaks up the flavors.
• 1 medium head broccoli, cut into small florets – Adds color, texture, and nutritional value.
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brightens up the dish.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a savory finish.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil – For garnish and added freshness.

Directions for Broccoli Pasta

Making Broccoli Pasta is a fun and rewarding experience! It’s a simple process that allows you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

1. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or similar large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted, you should see it bubbling slightly. Add the onion, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Sauté until the onion begins to soften, which takes about four minutes. Be careful not to let the onion brown, so adjust the heat if necessary.

2. Next, add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and cook for just about thirty seconds until the mixture becomes fragrant.

3. Now, slowly stir in the chicken broth and milk. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add in the pasta. Allow it to boil for five minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. After five minutes, carefully stir in the broccoli florets. Continue boiling the mixture until the pasta is al dente, which should take about five to seven minutes more. Stir often to ensure everything cooks evenly.

5. If at any point you notice that the mixture looks too dry, don’t hesitate to splash in additional broth. At first, the pasta will appear a bit liquidy, but it will thicken up as it sits.

6. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Let the dish rest for about five minutes.

7. When you’re ready to serve, give everything a final stir. Enjoy your hot Broccoli Pasta, and feel free to add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and parsley for that added flair!

Make It Your Own

Your kitchen, your rules! While I love the classic version of Broccoli Pasta, there are so many ways to customize it to fit your taste. Here are some tips to help you personalize your dish:

• Add protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make it a more filling meal.
• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to swap out broccoli for other seasonal veggies like asparagus or spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese variations: Mix up the cheese! Instead of Parmesan, try feta or mozzarella for a different twist.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños to the mix for an extra kick.
• Make it creamy: For an additional creamy texture, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
• Infuse flavors: Consider adding a splash of lemon zest or a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the flavor experience.

Serving Options for Broccoli Pasta

When it comes to serving Broccoli Pasta, the options are abundant! Here’s how you can enjoy this delightful dish:

• As a main course: Serve it as a standalone dish for a comforting dinner everyone will love.
• Pair with a side salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully and adds freshness to your meal.
• For lunch: Pack leftovers in a container for a quick and satisfying lunch option at work or school.
• Family gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings, offering a healthy option everyone can enjoy.
• Seasonal pairings: In the fall, consider serving with roasted vegetables; in summer, a side of grilled corn complements perfectly.
• Storing tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Broccoli Pasta stands out as a delicious and nutritious dish that the whole family will love. Its creamy texture combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just a meal but a way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. Enjoy the process and the flavors, and make it a regular part of your cooking repertoire!

Broccoli Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Broccoli Pasta combines creamy goodness with wholesome ingredients. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with nutrients, thanks to the vibrant green broccoli and flavorful seasonings. Perfect for the whole family, you'll want to make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion ¼-inch diced
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic minced, about 1 tablespoon
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional; or reduce to 1/8 teaspoon if sensitive to spice
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth plus additional as needed
• 1 ½ cups nonfat milk or milk of choice
• 8 ounces dry whole wheat ziti or similar pasta such as rigatoni, penne, or fusilli
• 1 medium head broccoli cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice for even more lemon flavor, add the zest also
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus additional for serving
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil plus additional for serving

Instructions

 

• Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or similar large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the onion, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the onion begins to soften, about 4 minutes. Do not let the onion brown (adjust the heat as needed if it starts to brown).
• Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Slowly stir in the broth and milk. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta. Let boil for 5 minutes, stirring periodically to keep the pasta from sticking to the pot, then stir in the broccoli florets.
• Continue boiling until the pasta is al dente, about 5 to 7 minutes more. Stir often to make sure the pasta cooks evenly. If at any point the pasta looks too dry, splash in additional broth as needed. The pasta will look a little liquidy at first but will thicken up as it sits.
• Stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan, and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as you like. Let rest 5 minutes, then stir once more. Enjoy hot, with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley as desired.

Notes

• To store: Store leftover creamy broccoli pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To reheat: Reheat in the microwave or over medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth. Adding more fresh herbs and cheese will help revive the flavor.
• To freeze: Broccoli pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the texture will become soft after freezing and thawing. That said, if you’ve got leftovers you can’t eat within a few days, you can freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Keyword Creamy Broccoli Pasta, easy pasta recipes, Healthy Pasta Dinner, Vegetable Pasta Recipe