This creamy pasta with broccoli is a go-to recipe that I make every three days! It’s incredibly tasty and simple to prepare, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. With a delightful combination of broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of chili, this dish is both flavorful and nutritious. The accompanying sauce adds a creamy, tangy finish that ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 400 g spaghetti
- Salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- 55 g butter
- 1 broccoli head, cut into florets
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 150 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 chili pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli and Onion Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Add the broccoli florets and continue to cook over medium heat until tender.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and chili pepper, cooking until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and a splash of water, then season with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer for a few minutes until the vegetables are cooked through and the flavors meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the vegetable mixture.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Stir in the chopped parsley.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt or sour cream, ketchup, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Serve:
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with the prepared sauce.
- Enjoy your meal!
Cooking Tips
- Al Dente Pasta: Make sure to cook the spaghetti until al dente for the perfect texture.
- Even Cooking: Cut the broccoli into uniform florets to ensure even cooking.
- Flavor Boost: Adding a bit of chili pepper gives a nice kick to the dish, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This pasta dish is packed with nutrients from the broccoli, including fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. The cherry tomatoes add a dose of lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. Greek yogurt or sour cream provides a creamy texture with added protein and probiotics.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and rich flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting and delicious meal that’s ready in no time. Plus, the creamy sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence without being overly heavy.
Dietary Information
This dish is vegetarian and can be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream. It’s also free from gluten if you use gluten-free pasta.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines simple, fresh ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The garlic and butter provide a rich base, while the vegetable broth enhances the overall taste. The creamy sauce ties everything together, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Creamy broccoli pasta is a delightful and easy dinner option that you can enjoy any day of the week. With its quick preparation and delicious taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out and discover a new favorite dish that you’ll want to make again and again!