The aroma of garlic sautéing in olive oil fills the kitchen, inviting you to dive into a comforting bowl of penne with broccoli. Picture this: tender pasta coated in a silky sauce, vibrant green florets sprinkled with parmesan, and a hint of red pepper flakes for that perfect kick. crispy potatoes with pesto creamy garlic herb mashed potatoes It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even if your cooking skills are more “microwave” than “Michelin star.” creamy pumpkin hummus. comforting creamy potato soup. For more inspiration, check out this Salmon with Lemon Garlic Sauce recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a cozy movie night. The laughter, the clinking of forks on plates, and the satisfied “Mmm” sounds as they dug in made me feel like a superstar chef. This penne with broccoli isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavors and friendships, ideal for any occasion where good vibes are mandatory.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This penne with broccoli is quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients create an eye-catching dish perfect for entertaining
- The flavors meld beautifully, offering a delightful taste experience that pleases everyone at the table
- You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or swapping out veggies based on what you have on hand
I once served this dish at a potluck, and my friends couldn’t believe how simple yet delicious it was.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Penne Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture; whole wheat adds extra fiber if desired.
- Fresh Broccoli: Use bright green florets; they should be firm and free from yellowing for peak freshness.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings out rich flavors; avoid powdered garlic for this recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Crockpot Chicken Breast recipe.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; use it generously for sautéing.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for optimal taste; it melts beautifully over warm pasta.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add these to taste for that spicy kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these to bring out all the flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in chopped broccoli florets and sauté until vibrant green and tender-crisp.
Add Cooked Pasta: Drain the pasta but reserve some pasta water. Add cooked penne directly into the skillet with broccoli and garlic. Toss everything together gently over low heat.
Create the Sauce: Gradually add reserved pasta water while tossing to create a light sauce that coats the penne evenly. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Season to Taste: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes along with salt and pepper to enhance flavors. Adjust seasoning according to your taste buds; remember that flavor is king!
Serve Warm: Plate your beautiful penne with broccoli immediately while it’s hot. Garnish with extra parmesan if desired—because why not indulge?
This penne with broccoli will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly while providing a warm hug in every bite! Enjoy its comforting goodness at family dinners or casual gatherings—it’s versatile enough for any occasion!
You Must Know
- Cooking Penne With Broccoli is not just about boiling pasta; it’s a delightful dance of flavors
- The vibrant green broccoli adds color and nutrition, making every bite a burst of joy
- Plus, it’s a quick dish that even a busy bee can whip up!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for the penne; add it once it’s bubbling. While the pasta cooks, sauté garlic and broccoli in a pan to infuse flavors. Combine everything at the end for a seamless blend of tastes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added color. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or add grated cheese to elevate the creamy texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the sauce’s creaminess without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your pasta water salty; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish significantly
- Don’t overcook broccoli; you want it tender yet slightly crisp for that perfect bite
- Lastly, remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for sauces!
Cooking Penne With Broccoli reminds me of my college days when I first tried impressing friends with my culinary skills. They were shocked I didn’t burn down the kitchen!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat penne instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne adds more fiber and nutrients while maintaining great taste.
How do I make this dish vegan?
Swap cheese for nutritional yeast and use vegetable broth instead of any animal-based products.
What can I serve with Penne With Broccoli?
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for added crunch.
Penne with Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Penne with Broccoli is a delightful, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe features al dente penne pasta tossed with vibrant broccoli, aromatic garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. With just a hint of red pepper flakes, this dish offers the ideal balance of flavors that will impress friends and family alike. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that celebrates fresh ingredients and culinary creativity.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente (10-12 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet; sauté until tender-crisp.
- Drain pasta, reserving some cooking water. Toss cooked penne into the skillet with broccoli and garlic over low heat.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water while tossing to create a light sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
