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Broccoli Cheese Pasta: 1 Glorious Cheesy Dinner

Broccoli Cheese Pasta

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A quick and creamy broccoli cheese pasta recipe that kids will love. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

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  • 8 ounces Dried Pasta (pipe rigate or shells)
  • 2 cups Broccoli florets, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Butter or margarine
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 23 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice plus zest
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (or toasted walnuts/almonds)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Add broccoli to the pasta water during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
  2. While pasta and broccoli cook, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until foamy (3-5 minutes).
  3. Add pine nuts to the skillet and sauté for about 4 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
  5. Drain the cooked pasta and broccoli. Transfer them to the skillet with the pine nut and garlic mixture.
  6. Toss everything together for about 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in lemon zest and juice, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
  8. Serve immediately, with an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, use margarine instead of butter.
  • Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pine nuts.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
  • For a vegan version, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and a vegan butter substitute.
  • Adjust lemon juice and zest to your preference.

Nutrition