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–+ servings
Creamy Garlic and Herb Broccoli Pasta – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Creamy Garlic and Herb Broccoli Pasta

A restaurant-worthy pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes. Tender pasta and vibrant broccoli florets tossed in a ridiculously simple, velvety cheese sauce that tastes like it simmered for hours.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 411 serving
Calories: 411
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ounces (113 g / 4 oz) dried pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, OR one 9-ounce / 255g (9 oz) package refrigerated pasta
  • 1 cup (90 g / 3.17 oz) chopped broccoli florets
  • 2.6 ounces (74 g / 2.61 oz) semisoft cheese with garlic and herbs, such as Boursin
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
  • Finely shredded Asiago or Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Always reserve about a half-cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. It's liquid gold for thinning the sauce to the perfect consistency while helping it cling to the pasta.
  • For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce as it melts.
  • Feel free to add more vegetables like frozen peas or a handful of fresh spinach. Add peas along with the broccoli, and wilt the spinach into the sauce at the very end.

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions.
  2. Add the chopped broccoli to the pot during the last 4 minutes of cooking time.
  3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine the semisoft garlic and herb cheese and the milk.
  5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup (960 ml) of the starchy pasta water.
  7. Drain the pasta and broccoli, and return the mixture to the hot pot.
  8. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta and broccoli.
  9. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  10. Serve immediately, sprinkled generously with finely shredded Asiago or Parmesan cheese.
  11. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

Nutrition

Calories: 411kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 14gFat: 20g

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