Easy Vegetarian Pasta with Broccoli Recipe

Looking for a quick and satisfying vegetarian pasta dish? This Easy Vegetarian Pasta with Broccoli is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners when you want something delicious yet simple to prepare. The recipe yields 4 servings, takes around 25 minutes to cook, and requires only a handful of ingredients.

Vegetarian pasta dishes are popular among health-conscious individuals due to their low-calorie content, balanced nutrition, and versatility in taste. This dish offers a hearty mix of al dente pasta and fresh broccoli florets, topped with a light yet flavorful sauce made from garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) penne pasta
• 1 large head of broccoli cut into florets
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start, bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well after cooking.

Meanwhile, in a separate pan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil for about 30 seconds or until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should remain pale golden.

Add the broccoli florets to the same pan and cook them briefly until just tender-crisp – approximately 5 minutes, depending on their size. Avoid overcooking as this will ensure that they retain their vibrant color and crisp texture when served with pasta.

Once both components are ready, combine the drained cooked pasta with the sautéed broccoli in the same pan. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta with a light layer of sauce. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over top for extra flavor and creaminess.

Season generously with salt and pepper according to your preference. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot; this dish tastes best when enjoyed fresh from the stove!

Nutritional Information

(Calculated based on 4 servings)

• Total Calories: Approximately 596 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: ~70g
• Fat: ~38g
• Protein: ~18g

Tips for Success

1. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so that it has a pleasant bite while also being tender.
2. Do not overcook the broccoli; its optimal texture and vibrant green color are best achieved through shorter cooking time.
3. If you prefer less spicy dishes, use fewer cloves of garlic or omit them altogether. Alternatively, add more Parmesan for extra richness without altering flavors too much.

This Easy Vegetarian Pasta with Broccoli is not only nutritious but also easy to customize depending on personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a comforting dinner option during colder months or a light lunch in springtime, this recipe delivers both satisfaction and health benefits.

Conclusion

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation process, this Easy Vegetarian Pasta with Broccoli stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced meal that satisfies all tastes without compromising on nutritional value. Try it tonight, and you'll find yourself coming back to this recipe time after time!