Description
Jamie Oliver’s Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish made with tender broccoli, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, tossed with pasta. It’s a perfect combination of taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 100g (3.5 oz) cooked chicken or shrimp
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
- A handful of fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
- In the same pot, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water during the last 4-5 minutes of pasta cooking time. Drain the pasta and broccoli together.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Chili
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Broccoli
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic oil. Use a fork to mash some of the broccoli for a creamier texture.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Lemon
- Stir in the grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and bring everything together.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs, if desired.