Spaghettini with Broccoli is a classic Italian dish that’s both simple and flavorful. Here’s a gourmet-inspired recipe that elevates this humble combination of pasta and broccoli with a bit of sophistication, yet it’s still easy to make!
Gourmet Spaghettini with Broccoli
Ingredients (Serves 2-3):
- 200g (7 oz) spaghettini (or your preferred pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for a nutty crunch)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh lemon juice (a squeeze, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still vibrant green. Use a slotted spoon to remove the broccoli and set it aside. Keep the water for the pasta.
- Cook the Spaghettini:
- In the same pot of boiling water, add the spaghettini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically 7-9 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Garlic Oil:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until the garlic becomes golden and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Broccoli and Pasta:
- Once the pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the garlic-infused olive oil. Toss to coat, and then add the cooked broccoli. If the mixture seems too dry, add some reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it up and create a silky sauce.
- Add Flavor Boosters:
- Stir in the lemon zest, Parmesan (or Pecorino), and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Plate the pasta and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and richness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Optional:
- For an extra touch, drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil over the top just before serving to add richness.
Tips for the Gourmet Touch:
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Toast them lightly in a dry pan until golden brown, being careful not to burn them. They bring a lovely nutty crunch and sophistication to the dish.
- Garlic: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can blanch the garlic first or cook it on a lower heat to avoid too much intensity.
- Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds the most flavor! Use a high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best result.
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh thyme or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
This dish is light yet full of flavor, with the broccoli adding a slight bitterness that balances beautifully with the richness of olive oil and the brightness from the lemon. It’s perfect for a simple, elegant dinner that’s still full of Italian charm. Enjoy!