Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner that won't keep you slaving away in the kitchen? Look no further! This creamy dreamy pasta and broccoli recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly quick to make, and offers a fantastic balance of carbohydrates and nutrients. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal game with this simple yet satisfying homemade dish. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's one of the best recipes for a delicious and nutritious dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This ensures perfectly cooked, tender-crisp broccoli.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will make the sauce bitter.
- Combine and Simmer: Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the saucepan with the garlic butter. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, dreamy pasta and broccoli!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the dish.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. You might need to add a little more cheese to maintain the creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on the type of pasta and cheese used)
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This easy pasta and broccoli recipe is a perfect example of delicious food recipes that are both quick and healthy. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!