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Smashed Broccoli Pasta First Image

Broccoli Pasta


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A deliciously creamy pasta dish with broccoli, garlic, and parmesan.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 head broccoli
  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cut broccoli into chunks, including peeled stems.
  2. Add broccoli to the pot and cook for 4 minutes. Then add pasta to the same pot and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Use a spoon or potato masher to smash the broccoli into the pasta.
  5. Pour in some reserved pasta water and stir until broccoli forms a sauce that coats the noodles.
  6. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and parmesan. Stir until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot with extra parmesan on top.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, ensure the pasta is egg-free.
  • Adjust the amount of reserved pasta water based on desired creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Boiling, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg