Mediterranean Flavorful Broccoli & Nuts Pasta
A vibrant pasta dish made with tender broccoli, garlic, olive oil, toasted nuts, and Mediterranean herbs. It’s light yet satisfying, with a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
Zest of 1 lemon + juice of ½ lemon
½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino (optional, for creaminess)
⅓ cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts – lightly toasted)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt & black pepper, to taste
ℹ️Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. In the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets into the pasta water.
4. Drain pasta and broccoli together, reserving ½ cup of the cooking water.
2. Make the Garlic Oil
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced garlic and cook until lightly golden and fragrant (do not burn).
3. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Combine Pasta & Sauce
1. Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
2. Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for silkiness.
3. Stir in lemon zest, juice, toasted nuts, and Parmesan (if using).
4. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Finish & Serve
1. Garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve warm, drizzled with extra olive oil if desired.
To Serve
Pairs beautifully with a side of Mediterranean cucumber tomato salad or garlic bread.
Can be served warm or at room temperature as a pasta salad.
Notes & Tips
For vegan: skip cheese or use nutritional yeast.
Toasting nuts enhances flavor—try pine nuts for a more Mediterranean touch.
Add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just add it directly to the pasta water near the end of cooking.
Q: What nuts are best?
Walnuts give earthiness, almonds give crunch, and pine nuts give authentic Mediterranean flair.
Q: Can I add protein?
Yes—grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make it a complete meal.
Nutrition information
Calories: 460
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 62g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 7g