Oh my goodness, do I have a delightful recipe for you today! Garlic Broccolini Pasta is one of my absolute favorites—it’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor. It’s that kind of dish that has you sailing smoothly through a busy weekday evening, or as I like to call it, “Pasta Therapy Night.” I remember the first time I made this dish; I was trying to impress a friend who had just moved to the city and was feeling a bit homesick. The aroma filled the house, and her eyes lit up like I was serving her gourmet food from a five-star restaurant. Spoiler alert: it was just me, the pasta, and a little bit of garlic magic!
What I love most about this recipe is that it’s all about the balance. The garlic gives it a warm richness, while the broccolini adds a lovely crunch and freshness. Plus, you can whip it up in about 30 minutes—perfect for when you want something impressive that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to dive in? Let’s go!
What’s in Garlic Broccolini Pasta?
Penne Pasta: I use 8 ounces here, but feel free to swap it out for your favorite pasta shape! There’s something so satisfying about slurping up those tubular noodles.
Broccolini: A wonderful twist on traditional broccoli, broccolini is slightly sweeter and more tender. Trimmed and cut into smaller pieces, it cooks quickly and beautifully in this dish.
Olive Oil: Just a couple of tablespoons are all you need for a luscious, flavorful foundation for the garlic. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for that rich taste.
Garlic: I’m talking three cloves of this aromatic wonder! And don’t even think about skimping; garlic is what gives this dish its character!
Red Pepper Flakes: Totally optional, but if you like a little heat, add in half a teaspoon for that kick!
Salt and Pepper: These two are your best friends in the kitchen—always taste as you go to create your perfect dish!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Just a sprinkle on top takes this pasta to the next level. It’s optional, but let’s be real—cheese is love!
Lemon Wedges: For serving, lemon adds a refreshing zing, brightening the dish and bringing all the flavors together.
Is Garlic Broccolini Pasta Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish brings together some fantastic health benefits:
Broccolini: Not just pretty to look at, broccolini is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It’s an excellent source of fiber and has antioxidants that are great for your overall health.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat, olive oil is packed with healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Just make sure you’re using good quality oil for the best health benefits.
Garlic: Not only is garlic delicious, but studies show it can help lower cholesterol levels and boost your immune system. Talk about a powerhouse ingredient!
On the flip side, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you may want to go easy on the added salt and cheese. And remember, if you’re not a fan of spice, skip the red pepper flakes. Overall, this dish is a wholesome choice that can fit into a balanced diet.
Ingredients
– 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
– 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed and cut into smaller pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
– Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
*This recipe serves about 2-3 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!*
How to Make Garlic Broccolini Pasta?
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Throw in your penne pasta and cook it up according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of that glorious pasta cooking water before you drain it!
2. **Blanch the Broccolini**: In the same pot of boiling water, toss in the trimmed broccolini pieces and cook for about 2 minutes. You want it to be bright green and tender-crisp. Drain it right away to keep that vibrant color!
3. **Sauté Garlic**: Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in your minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Just be careful not to burn it—nobody wants bitter garlic!
4. **Combine Pasta and Broccolini**: Add the drained pasta and broccolini to the skillet. Toss everything together, and if it looks a bit dry, splash in some of that reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
5. **Season**: Time to bring in the flavor! Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Toss it all well so each piece is evenly coated.
6. **Serve**: Plate your beautiful pasta! If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top and serve it with lemon wedges for that extra pop. Enjoy every bite!
A Little Extra Advice – Make It Yours!
You know I love to switch things up in the kitchen! Feel free to add some protein, like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it even heartier. Don’t have broccolini? No worries! Regular broccoli or even asparagus works just as well! And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some cherry tomatoes for a hint of sweetness.
So, grab your apron, turn on your favorite tunes, and let’s get cooking! I can’t wait for you to try this Garlic Broccolini Pasta and hear all about your cooking adventures and any fun twists you added. Happy cooking, my friend!
