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Easy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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This Easy Broccoli Pasta recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances tender pasta and broccoli florets with a rich butter, olive oil, and toasted pine nut sauce. Brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest, and finished with generous parmesan cheese, this quick 35-minute meal is a wholesome and satisfying option for weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 2 medium broccoli heads (about 1 1/2 pounds, or 10 ounces pre-chopped florets)

Pasta

  • 12 ounces dried pasta (pipe rigate or shells recommended)

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 lemon, juice and zest
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
  • Salt (for seasoning pasta water)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Slice off and discard the stems from the broccoli heads, then chop the florets into bite-sized pieces roughly the size of your pasta. If using pre-chopped florets, chop them smaller to match the pasta size.
  2. Boil the Pasta Water: Fill a large pot with water and season generously with salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil; the salted water will season both the pasta and broccoli.
  3. Cook Butter and Pine Nuts: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Cook until the butter foams and the foam subsides, about 5 minutes. Stir in pine nuts and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, then remove from heat.
  4. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions. When 3 minutes remain on the pasta’s cooking time, add broccoli florets to the pot. Simmer together until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender, then drain both and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Pour the butter, olive oil, pine nut, and garlic mixture over the pasta and broccoli. Add lemon zest and juice, then gently stir everything to combine. Mix in about 3/4 cup of parmesan cheese, adjusting to taste.
  6. Serve: Transfer pasta to a serving plate or bowl, top with the remaining parmesan cheese, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Salting the pasta water generously is key to flavoring the pasta and broccoli.
  • Toasting pine nuts adds a wonderful nutty flavor, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • You can substitute broccoli with other similar vegetables like broccolini or asparagus if desired.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
  • If you prefer a vegan version, substitute butter and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/easy-broccoli-pasta-recipe/