Garlic Broccoli Pasta

Garlic Broccoli Pasta Recipe - A Flavorful Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of garlic, broccoli, and roasted red peppers with savory Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a modern twist on traditional pasta dishes, combining classic Italian flavors with fresh and healthy ingredients. This recipe has become popular in recent years for its simplicity and versatility.

Ingredients

1 cup of chicken broth
1 head of broccoli, chopped into 0.75 inch pieces
1 roasted red pepper, diced
10 oz (283 g) of penne or rigatoni, cooked
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 oz (57 g) of shredded parmesan cheese
0.25 tsp (or to taste) of red pepper flakes

How to prepare

Heat the chicken broth in a large skillet until it simmers.
Add the garlic and broccoli, and simmer for about 6-8 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
Add the roasted red peppers, cooked pasta, and red pepper flakes, and stir well.
Heat for another two minutes until the pasta is warmed through.
Sprinkle Parmesan over the top of the pasta and serve.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Substitute broccoli with asparagus or green beans for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the broccoli until it is bright green and crisp-tender to maintain its texture and flavor.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Garlic Broccoli Pasta with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Use a large skillet to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed and heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute Pecorino Romano cheese for Parmesan for a sharper flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Garlic Broccoli Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Garlic Broccoli Pasta with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Garlic Broccoli Pasta with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Garlic Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Garlic Broccoli Pasta contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Garlic Broccoli Pasta contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Garlic Broccoli Pasta contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Garlic Broccoli Pasta contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (pasta), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious pasta recipe with your loved ones today!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Garlic Broccoli Pasta. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria’s house for lunch. Maria was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to trying her new dishes.

As I entered her kitchen, the aroma of garlic and herbs wafted through the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous smile, knowing that she was about to share something special with me.

“Today, I am going to teach you how to make my famous Garlic Broccoli Pasta,” Maria said, as she handed me a handwritten recipe card covered in splatters of sauce and oil. “This is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations, and I know you will love it.”

I eagerly studied the ingredients and instructions, marveling at the simplicity of the dish. It seemed like a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the garlic adding a bold punch to the tender broccoli and pasta. I couldn’t wait to try it for myself.

Maria guided me through each step of the recipe, showing me how to properly sauté the garlic until it was golden brown and fragrant. She explained the importance of not overcooking the broccoli, as it should be vibrant green and slightly tender. And she shared her secret for achieving the perfect al dente pasta, reminding me to always salt the water generously.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Garlic Broccoli Pasta and was instantly transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite more satisfying than the last. I couldn’t believe that something so simple could be so delicious.

From that day on, Garlic Broccoli Pasta became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family, friends, and anyone who would listen to me rave about Maria’s incredible recipe. I even shared it with my own grandchildren, passing down the tradition of good food and shared meals.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. But the heart of the dish remains the same – the garlic, the broccoli, and the pasta coming together in perfect harmony.

Every time I make Garlic Broccoli Pasta, I think of Maria and the day she shared her family recipe with me. I am grateful for her generosity and her love of cooking, which has inspired me to create my own culinary masterpieces.

And so, I continue to cook and share this beloved dish with those around me, spreading joy and comfort one plate at a time. The recipe may have originated from Maria’s kitchen, but it has found a permanent place in my heart and my home.