Creamy Broccoli Pasta: A Simple & Delicious Dinner Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this creamy broccoli pasta recipe, a favorite that you can whip up every few days due to its simplicity and delightful flavors. Combining tender broccoli florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, this pasta dish is not only satisfying but also packs a nutritious punch. Follow this easy recipe to create a comforting meal that your family will love.

Ingredients:

  • 400 grams spaghetti
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • 55 grams butter
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 150 grams cherry tomatoes
  • 1 chili pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon ketchup
  • Extra minced garlic and parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add butter and onions, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent.
  3. Add Broccoli and Tomatoes: To the skillet, add broccoli florets and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the tomatoes begin to burst.
  4. Simmer with Seasonings: If using, add chopped chili pepper. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to coat with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
  6. Finish with Creamy Sauce: Stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream and ketchup. Mix until the sauce is creamy and evenly coats the pasta. Adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra minced garlic over the pasta before serving. Serve hot for a comforting and hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Broccoli Pasta:

  • Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water. It’s key for creating a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti without extra fat.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust Creaminess: Depending on your preference, adjust the amount of Greek yogurt or sour cream to make your pasta as creamy as you like.

Serving Suggestions:

This creamy broccoli pasta can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dining experience:

  • With Proteins: For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp alongside the broccoli. This addition makes the meal more filling and suitable for those needing extra protein.
  • Vegetarian Nights: This dish is perfect for vegetarian diets as it’s already packed with nutritious vegetables. You could add more variety by including spinach or mushrooms, which complement the creamy texture of the sauce.
  • Family Dinners: Serve this pasta as part of a family dinner night, complemented by a crisp Caesar salad or steamed vegetables on the side to round out the meal.
  • Casual Dining: Enjoy this pasta with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and bright flavors of the vegetables.

Nutrition Information:

  • Fiber-Rich: Broccoli is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels. Including broccoli in your meals can increase your daily fiber intake.
  • Antioxidants and Vitamins: Broccoli and cherry tomatoes are loaded with vitamins C and K, antioxidants that protect the body against oxidative stress and support immune health and skin integrity.
  • Heart Health: Olive oil and garlic are known for their benefits to heart health, including reducing inflammation and lowering cholesterol levels.
  • Calories and Fat: While this dish is relatively healthy, it’s important to monitor portions, especially with the addition of butter and cheese, which increase the calorie and fat content. Using low-fat dairy alternatives can help maintain a lower calorie count.

Explore More Tasty Recipes:

If you loved our Creamy Broccoli Pasta, don’t miss out on these delicious dishes:

  • German Healthy Cookies: Looking for a nutritious snack? Our German Healthy Cookies are packed with nuts and dried fruits. Check out the recipe here!
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Enjoy these recipes for more delicious, easy-to-make meals!

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