Pasta with broccoli
Delicious, comforting, and ready in no time – this pasta with broccoli is a perfect weeknight solution. Twirls of fusilli meet tender broccoli in a velvety sauce, finished with crumbled white cheese and tangy black olives. Enjoy the creamy, savoury, and fresh flavours in this easy-to-make pasta recipe.
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Ingredients
|
Fusilli pasta
|
300 g |
|---|---|
|
Fresh broccoli
|
250 g |
|
Yellow onion
|
1 |
|
Butter
|
2 tbsp |
|
Cooking cream
|
250 ml |
|
Vegetable stock cube (500ml)
|
1 |
|
Black pepper
|
pinches |
|
Salt
|
pinches |
|
White cheese
|
100 g |
|
Black olives, coarsely chopped
|
5 |
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Use pasta water for a creamy finish
Save a cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water thickens the sauce and helps it coat the pasta evenly. Begin by stirring half a cup into your sauce while mixing, adding more gradually until the consistency is smooth. When reheating leftovers, a small amount of this reserved water can prevent the dish from drying out.
Select the right broccoli
Fresh broccoli is the best choice for this recipe, delivering a crisp texture and contrast to the creamy sauce. Look for bright green florets and firm stems. They are signs of a healthy broccoli. See if you can avoid vegetables with yellowing or wilting.
Get the perfect pasta texture
Cooking your pasta to the right level of firmness makes all the difference. Aim for al dente, meaning the pasta should be firm yet not hard. Check the pasta 2 minutes before the cooking time suggested on the package to avoid overcooking. Drain the pasta when it is slightly underdone, as it will continue to cook for a bit when combined with the hot sauce and broccoli.
FAQ: Questions about pasta with broccoli
Trying our pasta with broccoli for the first time? You are in for a treat! To make the most of it, we have answered some of the most common questions below.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh ones are unavailable. However, it cooks faster and is more prone to becoming mushy if overcooked. To prevent this, add the frozen broccoli to the pot during the final few minutes of cooking and remove it as soon as it becomes tender. While it may slightly alter the texture, it is a convenient option if you only have frozen veggies on hand.
How to store pasta with broccoli?
Store pasta with broccoli leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When freezing, ensure the pasta is cooled completely before placing it in the container to avoid ice crystals forming. Thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to reheat pasta with broccoli?
When ready to eat, reheat the pasta on a stovetop or microwave. Just note that each method has its advantages. On the stovetop, reheat the pasta over low heat, adding a splash of water, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore its smooth consistency. Stir frequently to ensure the sauce heats evenly and does not stick to the pan. In the microwave, transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of liquid to prevent it from drying out. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plate to retain moisture and reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to distribute the heat evenly. The stovetop offers more control over the texture, while the microwave is quicker and more convenient for small portions.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
1665 Kcal
| Fibre | 21.7 gram fibers |
| Protein | 63.7 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 230.5 gram |
| Fat | 53.1 gram |
Other recipes
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Cheesy pasta with broccoli – simple and satisfying
Pasta with broccoli proves that great meals do not have to be complicated or time-consuming. Ready in less than half an hour, this recipe combines creamy sauce, tender fusilli pasta, and crisp broccoli for a quick meal the whole family can enjoy together.
The secret to its appeal lies in the delicate balance of textures and flavours. The pasta absorbs the sauce, while the broccoli adds a light crunch that keeps the meal interesting. With only a few key ingredients, this recipe lets simplicity shine in the best way possible.
If you are in the mood for more quick and easy pasta dishes, try our chorizo pasta for a smoky, savoury twist. Pasta with chanterelles brings a nutty, earthy taste in a creamy base, while our Korean-inspired gochujang pasta delivers a bold kick with its spicy, umami-packed sauce.
A sprinkle of creamy white cheese and tangy black olives
It is the final touch for this pasta that makes it stand out. Crumbled white cheese melts gently into the sauce, creating a smooth, velvety layer that gently coats the other ingredients. Its slightly salty flavour work wonders with the tangy black olives. The cheese and olives introduce a Mediterranean touch, giving you the feeling of sitting in a cosy taverna in Greece, enjoying a delicious local dish.
Enjoy with fresh sides and crisp bread
Broccoli pasta becomes a complete meal when served with a few well-chosen sides. A crisp garden salad is a refreshing option, with crunchy greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. It is a light and simple way to add variety to your plate.
For a warm and crowd-pleasing option, garlic bread is hard to beat. Think toasted slices with golden crusts and a buttery garlic flavour, soaking up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables are another excellent choice. Try courgettes, peppers, or caramelised root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips. They bring earthy flavours and a touch of sweetness.
Pointed cabbage from the oven brings out the natural sweetness of the veggie while keeping the inside tender and the outer leaves slightly crisp. Sprinkled with Havarti cheese and fresh herbs, it adds a mild creaminess and aromatic finish that works beautifully alongside the pasta.
Give the recipe a personal twist
Looking to make this recipe your own? Finish with a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick, adjusting the amount to suit your preference. For something different, choose your favourite cheeses. Cheddar provides a sharp, nutty flavour, while Gruyère adds richness with its slightly salty notes. If you enjoy bold flavours, swap the white cheese for goat's cheese. Goat’s cheese is creamy with earthy, slightly nutty undertones and a delicate tang.
For a sweeter twist, try stirring in roasted red peppers or chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Fresh herbs are another way to experiment with our recipe. Parsley has a clean, slightly peppery flavour that lightens the sauce's richness, while dill introduces a mild, grassy note that pairs well with the broccoli. Basil, with its sweet and aromatic profile, adds a lively finish.
