When I was a kid, I used to dread eating broccoli. It was always the dreaded green vegetable on my plate that I had to force myself to eat. But as I grew older and started experimenting with different recipes, I realized how versatile and delicious broccoli can be when paired with the right ingredients.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable is by adding it to pasta dishes. Adding broccoli to your pasta not only adds a pop of color and flavor but also boosts its nutritional value. Broccoli is packed with vitamins C, K, and A, fiber, and antioxidants that benefit our overall health. Plus, it’s an affordable ingredient that can easily be found at any grocery store or local market.
In this article, I’ll share some quick and easy recipes using broccoli in various pasta dishes that will have you falling in love with this veggie all over again.
Table of Contents
Quick and Easy Broccoli Pasta Recipes
You’re in for a treat with these quick and easy pasta dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Adding broccoli not only makes your pasta more nutritious but also gives it an extra crunch and flavor.
There are various broccoli pasta variations you can try, and here are some of my favorites.
First, there’s the classic Broccoli Alfredo Pasta where you cook the broccoli florets together with the pasta until tender, then toss them in a creamy alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Another option is Broccoli Pesto Pasta where you blend cooked broccoli with basil leaves, pine nuts or walnuts, garlic cloves, olive oil, parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast to make a flavorful green sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Don’t forget to season it with salt and lemon juice to bring out the flavors even more.
These recipes not only taste great but also provide numerous health benefits of broccoli in pasta such as boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, promoting digestion and heart health.
Creamy Broccoli Pasta Dishes
I absolutely love incorporating broccoli into my pasta dishes, and there are so many delicious ways to do it.
One of my favorites is Broccoli Alfredo, where I sauté garlic and onions before adding in steamed broccoli florets and a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Another great option is Broccoli Carbonara, which includes bacon, egg yolks, and Parmesan cheese for a rich and decadent flavor.
And for a simple yet satisfying meal, I always turn to Broccoli and Cheese Pasta with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella melted over tender broccoli pieces.
Broccoli Alfredo
The creamy and indulgent Broccoli Alfredo is a favorite in Italian-American cuisine, with over 70% of Americans naming it as their go-to comfort food dish.
Adding other vegetables to the classic recipe can add an extra dose of flavor and nutrition. I like to mix in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for added texture and taste.
There are also variations of broccoli alfredo sauce that can be made using different types of cheese. For a sharper flavor, try using Parmesan instead of the traditional heavy cream. Another option is to substitute some of the cheese for cashews or silken tofu for a vegan-friendly version.
No matter how you choose to make it, Broccoli Alfredo is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Broccoli Carbonara
Get ready to transport your taste buds to Italy with this creamy and savory Broccoli Carbonara, complete with crispy bacon bits and a generous sprinkling of grated Pecorino Romano cheese. This classic Italian dish is simple yet flavorful, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or even a special occasion.
When adding bacon to broccoli carbonara, I like to cook the bacon separately until it’s nice and crispy. Then, I set it aside on paper towels to drain any excess grease before crumbling it into the pasta.
As for variations of the sauce, some people prefer a richer version made with heavy cream while others opt for an egg-based sauce that’s lighter in texture. No matter which variation you choose, be sure to toss in plenty of fresh broccoli florets for added flavor and nutrition.
Broccoli and Cheese Pasta
Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of this broccoli and cheese pasta dish, perfect for satisfying your cravings on a chilly evening. This versatile recipe can be made with either chicken or pesto, depending on your preference. The combination of tender broccoli florets and al dente pasta is complemented by the rich sauce that coats every bite.
To make this mouth-watering dish, start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté some garlic and onion until they turn translucent before adding in your protein of choice. Once cooked through, add in steamed broccoli florets and stir until everything is well combined. Then, mix in the creamy cheese sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes before serving hot.
To give you an idea of how delicious this dish can be, here’s a table that compares the nutritional value of our broccoli and chicken pasta versus our broccoli and pesto pasta:
| Nutrient | Broccoli & Chicken Pasta | Broccoli & Pesto Pasta |
|---|---|---|
| Calories per serving (1 cup) | 350 | 310 |
| Protein per serving (g) | 26 | 10 |
| Fat per serving (g) | 12 | 16 |
| Carbohydrates per serving (g) | 30 | 25 |
| Fiber per serving (g) | 5 | 4 |
As you can see, both versions are equally nutritious but offer different flavor profiles. Whichever version you choose to make, I’m sure it will become a staple in your meal rotation.
Broccoli and Tomato-Based Pasta Sauces
I love adding broccoli to my pasta sauces, especially tomato-based ones. The combination of the sweet tomatoes and the slightly bitter broccoli creates a delicious balance of flavors.
For those who prefer meat in their pasta, adding ground beef or turkey to a broccoli and tomato sauce is a great way to add protein while still keeping it healthy.
And for a twist on traditional tomato-based sauces, roasting red peppers with the broccoli adds an extra layer of smokiness and sweetness to the dish.
Broccoli and Tomato Sauce Pasta
Looking for a quick and delicious pasta dish? Try this broccoli and tomato sauce combo that’s sure to satisfy. I love adding broccoli to my pasta dishes because not only does it provide a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber, but it also adds a crunchy texture and satisfying flavor.
Here’s how you can make this tasty dish:
-
Start by cooking your favorite type of pasta according to the instructions on the package.
-
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
-
Then add chopped broccoli florets, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). Cook until the broccoli is tender.
-
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the pan with the broccoli and tomato sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
This simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re short on time but still want something tasty and nutritious. Plus, you can always switch up the ingredients by pairing broccoli with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added variety. Give it a try!
Broccoli and Meat Sauce Pasta
I hope you enjoyed learning about how to make broccoli and tomato sauce pasta in the previous subtopic. Now, let’s add some meat to our pasta! Adding ground beef to your broccoli pasta is a great way to incorporate protein into your meal while still enjoying the health benefits of broccoli.
Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. It also contains fiber and antioxidants that can help lower inflammation in the body. By adding ground beef to your pasta dish, you’re not only increasing your protein intake but also adding iron and zinc to your diet. Together, this makes for a deliciously nutritious meal that will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Broccoli | 2 cups |
| Pasta | 8 oz |
| Tomato Sauce | 2 cups |
To prepare this dish, start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. While the meat cooks, chop up two cups of fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Once the meat is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Next, cook eight ounces of pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. As the pasta cooks, return the skillet with leftover beef fat back onto medium heat. Add in chopped broccoli florets and stir occasionally until they become tender yet crispy (about five minutes). Pour in two cups of tomato sauce along with cooked ground beef into skillet followed by drained pasta noodles; combine everything together until well coated in sauce.
Finally serve up hot with grated parmesan cheese or chili flakes as desired – enjoy!
Broccoli and Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Pasta
So you’re ready for some roasted red pepper sauce pasta with a healthy twist? Let’s get to it!
This dish is a great way to add some variety to your pasta routine while also reaping the health benefits of adding broccoli. Roasted red pepper and broccoli pasta variations are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Here are five ways to enjoy this delicious dish:
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
- Add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of spice
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option
- Use cashews instead of cream in the sauce for a vegan alternative
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor
Incorporating broccoli into your pasta dishes not only adds nutritional value, but it also brings a unique texture and flavor. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals that can benefit your overall health, such as vitamin C, fiber, folate, and potassium. Adding broccoli to your pasta meals can help increase satiety and promote feelings of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
To make this roasted red pepper and broccoli pasta dish, start by roasting two large red peppers until they’re charred on all sides. Remove the skin and seeds from the peppers and puree them in a blender or food processor along with one cup of steamed broccoli florets.
Cook one pound of spaghetti according to package instructions and reserve one cup of the cooking water before draining. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add the roasted red pepper-broccoli puree to the skillet along with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese and reserved cooking water as needed until desired consistency is reached.
Toss cooked spaghetti in the sauce until evenly coated then serve immediately garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Broccoli and Seafood Pasta Dishes
If you’re feeling adventurous, try spicing up your dinner with some delicious broccoli and seafood pasta dishes. Broccoli’s unique flavor profile pairs perfectly with seafood, creating a dish that is both flavorful and healthy. To get started, here are two broccoli and seafood pasta recipes you can try at home.
For the first recipe, we’ll be making Broccoli and Shrimp Linguine in White Wine Sauce. Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn pink, then remove them from the heat. In another pan, cook chopped broccoli until it becomes tender-crisp before adding white wine to deglaze the pan. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer before returning shrimp to the pan along with cooked linguine noodles. Mix everything together before serving hot.
The second recipe involves Broccoli and Scallop Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce. Begin by searing scallops on one side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown before flipping over to sear on the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove them from heat while cooking pasta according to package instructions. For the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan before adding minced garlic and cooking until fragrant without burning it. Next, add lemon juice followed by cooked broccoli florets into your saucepan of melted butter mixture—you may need to add extra broth or water if necessary—and mix well together before serving hot!
Broccoli and Vegetarian Pasta Dishes
After exploring some delectable seafood pasta dishes with broccoli, let’s now focus on vegetarian options. As someone who enjoys a good meatless meal every now and then, I’m always looking for ways to add more veggies into my diet.
Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits, making it the perfect addition to any pasta dish. One of my favorite ways to pair broccoli with pasta is by using whole wheat noodles. The nutty flavor of the pasta complements the broccoli perfectly and adds an extra boost of fiber to the dish.
I usually toss in some cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes for some added flavor and nutrition. Another great option is using chickpea or lentil-based pasta for a protein-packed meal that will keep you full for hours. Whether you prefer spaghetti or penne, adding broccoli will give your dish a healthy twist that won’t compromise on taste.
Conclusion
So there you have it, adding broccoli to your pasta is not only a delicious way to enjoy your meal, but it also adds a healthy boost of nutrients.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy dish or something more elaborate, there are plenty of recipes out there that incorporate this versatile vegetable.
In fact, did you know that broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables out there? It’s packed with vitamins C and K, as well as folate and fiber. Plus, it’s also a good source of minerals like potassium and calcium.
So next time you’re looking to add some green to your pasta dish, consider throwing in some broccoli for both flavor and nutrition.
Happy cooking!
