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Pasta with Broccoli

This Pasta with Broccoli is a simple, healthy, and authentic Italian pasta dish made with tender broccoli, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's a delicious vegetarian meal for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces (340 g) orecchiette, penne, or fusilli pasta
  • 1 Large head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ Cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ Cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Set measuring cups
  • 1 Set measuring spoons
  • 1 Cheese Grater
  • 1 Pasta tongs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions.
  3. During the last 3–4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot.
  4. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Stir in the red pepper flakes, if using.
  8. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
  9. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  10. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice, if using.
  11. Remove from the heat and let the pasta rest for 5 minutes so the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
  12. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Cook the broccoli until just tender to maintain its bright green color.
  • Reserve pasta water to create a silky, light sauce.
  • Add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for extra protein.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.