Really Quick Broccoli Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that brings together the delightful combination of pasta and broccoli. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch, this recipe can be prepared in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a tasty meal that is both satisfying and healthy.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for those who have little time to cook. Second, it includes broccoli, which is packed with nutrients and vitamins. Lastly, the flavor from the cheese, lemon, and spices makes this dish enjoyable for the whole family. You’ll find that it’s a wonderful way to incorporate vegetables into your meals without sacrificing taste.
How to Make Really Quick Broccoli Pasta
Making Really Quick Broccoli Pasta is straightforward and requires only a few steps. You will quickly have a warm and tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 350g / 12 oz dried short pasta (I used small shells)
- 2 broccoli heads (BIG!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (or more!)
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (or more!)
- 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup parmesan, finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp mixed dried herbs (or fresh!)
- 1/2 tsp+ red pepper flakes (add more if you want spicy!)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- More parmesan
Directions
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of water with 2 tsp salt. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, cut the broccoli into small florets.
- In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stir for about 30 seconds.
- Add the broccoli, salt, pepper, and sugar to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Combine the pasta with the broccoli mixture. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. Mix well. If it’s too dry, add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add the shredded cheese, herbs, and more parmesan on top for extra flavor.
How to Serve Really Quick Broccoli Pasta
Serve Really Quick Broccoli Pasta warm. You can top it with additional parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Really Quick Broccoli Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it seems dry.
Tips to Make Really Quick Broccoli Pasta
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra goodness.
- Use a mix of your favorite cheeses to enhance the flavor.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to taste; it adds a wonderful freshness.
Variation
For a protein boost, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish. This makes it even heartier and will surely satisfy your cravings.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute the cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast and use olive oil instead of any dairy.
Enjoy your cooking experience with this Really Quick Broccoli Pasta!
Really Quick Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Broccoli
- 350 g dried short pasta I used small shells
- 2 heads broccoli BIG!
Cheese and Flavorings
- 1 cup shredded cheese or more!
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or more!
- 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup parmesan, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp mixed dried herbs or fresh!
- ½ tsp+ red pepper flakes add more if you want spicy!
- 1 tsp sugar
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- More parmesan
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of water with 2 tsp salt.
- Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Preparing the Broccoli
- While the pasta is cooking, cut the broccoli into small florets.
- In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stir for about 30 seconds.
- Add the broccoli, salt, pepper, and sugar to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
Combining Ingredients
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Combine the pasta with the broccoli mixture. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- If it’s too dry, add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add the shredded cheese, herbs, and more parmesan on top for extra flavor.
