Description
A quick and nutritious pasta dish featuring fresh broccoli, garlic, and a hint of lemon, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: wash and chop broccoli, mince garlic, and zest lemon.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente.
- Blanch the broccoli by adding it to the boiling pasta water about 2 minutes before the pasta is done.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli, saving a cup of pasta water, and return them to the pot.
- Add olive oil to the pot over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Toss the pasta and broccoli in the pot, adding reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Season with lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Ensure to reserve some pasta water for a luscious sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: broccoli pasta, healthy pasta, quick meals, family recipe, vegetarian dishes