Pasta with Broccoli
A Delicious and Nutrient-Packed Italian Classic
Pasta with Broccoli, or "Pasta con i Broccoli" in Italian, is a beloved dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the freshness of broccoli. This classic Italian recipe is not only incredibly tasty but also a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal that's rich in vitamins and flavors. In this culinary adventure, we'll guide you through creating a delightful Pasta with Broccoli dish that's perfect for any occasion.
To create this Pasta with broccoli, gather the following key ingredients:
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12 ounces of pasta (orecchiette or your favorite type)
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2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
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3 cloves of garlic, minced
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4-6 anchovy fillets (adjust to taste), finely chopped or mashed
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1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta with Broccoli Ingredients:
Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together.
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Sauté the Garlic, Anchovies, and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped or mashed anchovy fillets. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the anchovies dissolve into the oil. Add the red pepper flakes and continue to cook for another minute. Adjust the heat and red pepper flakes to your taste.
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Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Seasoning: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic, anchovies, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and broccoli with the flavorful oil. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a silky sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve and Garnish:
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Plate the Pasta with Broccoli and Anchovies. For an extra burst of flavor, serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish (optional).
Pasta with Broccoli and Anchovies - A Taste of Italy on Your Plate
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Pasta with broccoli and anchovies takes this classic Italian dish to a whole new level of flavor. The tender-crisp texture of broccoli combines beautifully with the umami richness of anchovies, creating a harmonious blend of savory and freshness.
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The garlic and red pepper flakes infuse the dish with a subtle heat that elevates every bite, and the choice of orecchiette pasta captures the sauce perfectly, ensuring a delightful combination of pasta, broccoli, and anchovy goodness.
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A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil provides a luxurious touch, while the optional lemon wedges offer a zesty contrast, brightening up the dish with their citrusy notes.
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Pasta with Broccoli and Anchovies - A Versatile Italian Gem
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Just like the traditional version, Pasta with Broccoli and Anchovies is highly versatile. Customize the dish to suit your preferences and dietary restrictions. For a heartier version, add grilled chicken or sausage. Seafood lovers can add sautéed shrimp or scallops. Vegetarians can enjoy it as-is or toss in some roasted cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
Whether you're cooking a quick weekday dinner or hosting a special gathering, Pasta with Broccoli and Anchovies is sure to satisfy and impress. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures captures the essence of Italian comfort food with a delightful twist.
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So, gather your ingredients, set your table, and prepare to enjoy a taste of Italy with Pasta with Broccoli and Anchovies. Buon appetito!
