Really Quick Broccoli Pasta

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I have a secret for busy weeknights: my Really Quick Broccoli Pasta.

It’s a quick and easy recipe that saves the day. It’s perfect for a fast dinner that’s both tasty and healthy.

Really Quick Broccoli Pasta

Imagine a dish with lemon, cheese, and two whole heads of broccoli. It’s a meal that’s quick, nutritious, and full of flavor. This is my favorite broccoli recipe for busy nights.

This quick dinner will be your new favorite for easy meals. It’s easy to make, filling, and shows that you don’t need to spend hours cooking. Let’s explore this amazing pasta dish together!

Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)

I love this broccoli pasta recipe for its simplicity and flexibility. It’s easy to make and you can change ingredients based on what you have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Short pasta (shells or orecchiette)
  • Fresh broccoli
  • Shredded cheese
  • Lemon zest and juice
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic
  • Dried herbs
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Sugar, salt, and pepper

If you’re missing something, don’t worry. You can swap out ingredients. Use any short pasta if you don’t have shells. Penne or fusilli work well too.

For cheese, you can use cheddar or Monterey Jack if you don’t have shredded. The sauce is where you can get creative. Adjust the lemon to your taste. Try different herbs or spices.

This broccoli pasta recipe is all about making it your own. It’s flexible to your tastes and what you have at home. The key is to have fun with it!

“Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colors, there are only so many flavors – it’s how you combine them that sets you apart.”

Remember, the best pasta dishes come from trying new things. Don’t be afraid to mix it up!

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Instructions

I love making broccoli pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. Here’s how to make broccoli pasta in just 15 minutes:

  1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  3. Chop broccoli into small florets while pasta cooks.
  4. Add broccoli to pasta pot 2 minutes before pasta is done.
  5. Mix sauce ingredients in a jar while pasta and broccoli cook.
  1. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Return pasta and broccoli to pot.
  3. Add sauce and cheese, stirring vigorously.
  4. Gradually add pasta water until creamy.

One of my favorite pasta cooking tips is to use the pasta water to create a silky sauce. This trick works wonders for broccoli pasta! The starchy water helps bind everything together, resulting in a delicious meal in no time.

I never skip reserving pasta water. It’s the secret to perfectly creamy pasta dishes!

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious broccoli pasta ready in just 15 minutes. It’s my go-to recipe when I need a fast, satisfying meal.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

I’ve found some cool pasta cooking tips to make your broccoli pasta better. Always use fresh cheese for the best melt and taste. Make sure the broccoli is tender but still a bit crunchy.

Using saved pasta water is a big secret. It makes the sauce smooth without extra oil. Just keep a cup of it before you drain your pasta.

Here’s how to store broccoli pasta:

  • Let the dish cool completely
  • Transfer to an airtight container
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

For leftovers, add a bit of milk or cream to reheat. It keeps the sauce creamy. You can also add more veggies or protein to make it different.

“Pasta is a canvas. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to create your masterpiece.”

With these tips, you’ll be great at making broccoli pasta. Enjoy cooking!

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Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

I love making this broccoli pasta recipe my own. I add leftover chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and make a big meal.

Vegetarians can also get creative with this recipe. Try using cauliflower instead of broccoli. Or add a mix of frozen veggies for more color and nutrition. For extra taste, add pesto or Alfredo sauce. These changes make the dish exciting and new.

For serving, I pair it with a crisp salad and warm garlic bread. This combo always hits the spot. For extra crunch, add toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits. If you’re vegan, use plant-based cheese to make it work for you.