Meatless Friday: Pasta with Broccoli

Alex Resch’s shares a simple and yummy meatless pasta recipe her grandmother used to make for her family. Download our printable recipe card!

Pasta with broccoli was a staple in my grandmother’s kitchen when I was growing up. It was something we always asked her to make, and it's like a comfort food for me. Thankfully, my kids are always just as excited when I make it today! 

The garlicky oil sauce mixed with the broccoli is a perfect combination. With only a few simple ingredients, you can have this pasta dish on your table quickly. I like to always keep these ingredients on hand so I can whip this meal up in a pinch. Feel free to use any pasta your family likes, but I like to make it with spaghetti or linguine noodles. You can serve this with a side salad to make the meal a little heartier. When I cook this dish in my home, I know it will be healthy, filling, and enjoyed by all! 

Pasta with Broccoli  

Serves 6 as an entree  

Ingredients:  

1 lb dried linguine (or any pasta of your choice)
6 cloves of garlic, minced
12-oz bag of frozen broccoli florets
4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for sprinkling on top)  

Directions:  

Cook pasta according to the instructions on the package. While the pasta cooks, add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a pan heated to medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Set the garlic oil sauce aside.  

Pour the frozen broccoli into a microwave safe dish with 2 tablespoons of water. Steam the broccoli in the microwave by heating for 5 minutes.  

Drain the pasta when finished, and reserve ¼ cup of pasta water. Combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, garlic oil, salt, and pepper together. Add the parmesan cheese and stir. Add some pasta water to the mixture if it looks too dry.  

Serve with grated parmesan cheese for sprinkling.