Have you ever found yourself staring at a fridge full of ingredients, yet feeling utterly uninspired? That’s how I felt just last Tuesday, until I remembered the humble yet versatile broccoli.
It’s like the unsung hero of the vegetable world—always there, ready to save the day. Whether you’re tossing it in a stir-fry or roasting it until it’s crispy, broccoli is the perfect canvas for your culinary masterpiece.
(And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a little green in their life? ) So grab a bunch, and let’s explore some deliciously easy dinner ideas that promise not just nourishment, but a little culinary joy!
Steps
- Begin by boiling a large pot of water with salt and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the broccoli into small florets. Add the broccoli to the pot with the pasta about 1-2 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked.
- In a separate jar, combine the sauce ingredients: lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, grated parmesan, minced garlic, dried herbs, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Shake well to mix.
- Just before draining the pasta and broccoli, reserve one cup of the cooking water. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then return them to the pot.
- Add half a cup of the reserved pasta water to the sauce jar and shake again. Pour the sauce and shredded cheese into the pot with the pasta and broccoli.
- Stir everything vigorously until well combined and the cheese has melted, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve a juicy consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately garnished with additional parmesan.
Ingredients
- 350g (12 oz) dried short pasta (e.g., small shells)
- 2 large heads of broccoli
- 1 cup shredded cheese (or more, if desired)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or more, to taste)
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs (or use fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon or more red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2536cal | Carbohydrates: 284g | Protein: 92g | Fat: 116g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Cholesterol: 124mg | Sodium: 3072mg | Potassium: 2436mg | Fiber: 24g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 5080IU | Vitamin C: 464.8mg | Calcium: 1388mg | Iron: 9.6mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
- Absolutely! Any short pasta like macaroni, penne, or ziti works well. Even long pasta can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
- Is it necessary to include lemon in the pasta dish?
- The lemon adds a subtle tang and helps create more sauce without using extra oil, but it’s optional. You can substitute it with extra olive oil or a mild vinegar if preferred.
- Can I substitute the cheese in the recipe?
- Yes, any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gruyere, can be used. Parmesan can be replaced with pre-grated store-bought cheese or omitted if necessary.
- How can I make the dish spicier?
- To add heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste. This element is entirely optional.
- What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
- You can use a mix of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Alternatively, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for extra flavor.
Tips
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, remember to save a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water is crucial for creating a luscious, silky sauce without needing to add excessive oil.
- Timing for Broccoli: Add the broccoli to the pasta water just 1-2 minutes before the pasta finishes cooking. This ensures the broccoli is perfectly tender without being overcooked.
- Cheese Selection: Opt for a melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack to enhance the sauce’s creaminess. Parmesan is excellent for an additional flavor boost but isn’t necessary if you’re using a flavorful melting cheese.
- Adjust Lemon Flavor: The lemon adds a subtle tang to the dish. If you’re a fan of pronounced lemon flavors, feel free to increase the lemon zest and juice, or substitute with a mild vinegar for a similar effect.
Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling pasta and cooking broccoli.
- Jar with Lid – To mix and shake the pasta sauce.
- Fine Grater – For grating parmesan cheese.
- Colander – For draining the pasta and broccoli.
- Kitchen Scale – If you need an accurate measurement for the pasta and other ingredients.
