Description
Garlic Pasta With Broccoli is a simple and flavorful Italian pasta dish featuring tender broccoli florets sautéed with fragrant garlic and red pepper flakes, tossed with al dente spaghetti, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. This quick and comforting meal is perfect for easy weeknight dinners and can be easily customized with protein additions.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Cheese and Garnish
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Other
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. During the last 3 to 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them until tender.
- Reserve pasta water and drain: Before draining, scoop out and reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Then drain the pasta and broccoli well and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 to 60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, infusing the oil with flavor.
- Toss pasta and seasonings: Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot with the garlic oil. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything thoroughly to combine, creating a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving warm, adding brightness and extra flavor to the dish.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts best and enhances the flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference or omit it entirely.
- Use lemon juice sparingly to balance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
