Introduction
Discover a delicious way to enjoy pasta with this scrumptious recipe that combines the heartiness of pasta with the freshness of broccoli and a zesty sauce. Perfect as a main dish or a vibrant side, this dish celebrates simple ingredients that come together beautifully to provide a hearty meal. Whether you are feeding a family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
350g / 12 oz dried short pasta (I used small shells)
2 broccoli heads (BIG!)
1 cup shredded cheese (or more!)
Pasta Sauce (Notes for Subs)
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
Servings
More parmesan
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
This recipe will serve 4 as a main dish or 6 to 8 as a side dish.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook Pasta
Boil a large pot of water with 2 teaspoons of salt. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add 350g (12 oz) of dried short pasta (such as small shells) and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Chop Broccoli
While the pasta is cooking, take 2 large heads of broccoli and chop them into small florets.
Cook Broccoli
Add the chopped broccoli to the boiling water about 1 to 2 minutes before the pasta is done cooking. Allow the broccoli to cook along with the pasta until both are tender.
Prepare the Sauce Ingredients
In a jar with a lid, combine the following sauce ingredients: 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1/3 cup of finely grated parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of mixed dried herbs, 1/2 teaspoon (or more, if desired) of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
Reserve Pasta Water
Just before draining the pasta and broccoli, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and broccoli together and return them to the same pot on the turned-off stove.
Add Pasta Water to Sauce
Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to the jar with the sauce ingredients. Secure the lid and shake the jar well to combine everything.
Add Sauce & Cheese to Pasta
Pour the sauce from the jar into the pot containing the pasta and broccoli. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese (or more, to taste). Stir vigorously to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Serve!
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe will serve 4 as a main dish or 6 to 8 as a side dish.
Recipe Substitutions
– Pasta: Any short pasta can be used, such as macaroni, elbow, twirls, penne, ziti, or orecchiette.
– Broccoli: This dish can accommodate a generous amount of broccoli; it’s fine if you have a little less.
– Cheese: Any melting cheese is suitable, with flavored options like cheddar, Monterey Jack, tasty, gruyere, or Swiss being preferred. Mozzarella is also acceptable but might require additional salt.
– Lemon: The lemon flavor is intended to be subtle but can be enhanced. Substitute with 1.5 tablespoons more oil or use a mild vinegar such as white wine vinegar.
– Garlic: You can substitute green onions or use garlic/onion powder or finely grated onion in the sauce.
– Herbs: Mixed dried herbs can include rosemary, thyme, parsley, oregano, or basil. Feel free to use fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a finishing touch.
– Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a touch of heat.
– Sugar: Optional and can help balance the sourness.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt before adding the pasta. This enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks.
Chopping Broccoli
Use a sharp knife to chop broccoli into small, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and easy incorporation into the pasta.
Blanching Broccoli
Add the chopped broccoli to the pot of boiling pasta water for the last 1-2 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time. This brightens the color and retains nutrients.
Mixing Pasta Sauce
Combine sauce ingredients in a jar, adding half a cup of reserved pasta water, and shake vigorously to blend the flavors.
Combining Ingredients
Return the drained pasta to the pot, add the sauce and shredded cheese, and mix thoroughly. Adjust consistency by adding more pasta water as needed.
Tasting and Seasoning
Taste the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper levels according to preference before serving.
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any short pasta, such as macaroni, penne, or orecchiette, works well.
What if I don’t have broccoli?
You can substitute with other vegetables like green beans or spinach, or simply reduce the amount of vegetables.
What type of cheese can I use?
Any melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella can be used. If using mozzarella, consider adding more salt.
How important is the lemon in this recipe?
The lemon adds a subtle tang, but you can adjust the amount or substitute with vinegar if preferred.
What other herbs can I use?
Feel free to use any fresh or dried herbs you like, such as basil, parsley, or thyme, based on your preference.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Just add more red pepper flakes to achieve the desired level of heat.
Is the sugar necessary?
No, the sugar is optional and is used to balance out sour flavors, especially if you increase the lemon or vinegar.
Conclusion
This creamy broccoli pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying dish for both casual dinners and special occasions. With a hint of lemon and a medley of spices, it’s easily adaptable, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Serve it warm, topped with extra parmesan, for a wholesome meal that truly shines.
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