When it comes to Italian comfort food, few dishes rival the heartwarming and satisfying taste of Cavatelli and Broccoli.
This classic dish combines the tender, chewy pasta known as cavatelli with vibrant and nutritious broccoli, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) cavatelli pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cavatelli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
While the pasta is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are bright green and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked cavatelli pasta and steamed broccoli florets to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and broccoli with the flavorful oil. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a light sauce.
4. Season and Serve
Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all the flavors meld together.
Serve the Cavatelli and Broccoli hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness.
Cavatelli and Broccoli is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender pasta, crisp broccoli, and the flavorful kick of garlic and red pepper flakes. Buon appetito!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories: 410 kcal
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 360mg
Total Carbohydrates: 56g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 13g
Vitamin D: 0%
Calcium: 120mg
Iron: 4mg
Potassium: 660mg
10 Simple Cavatelli And Broccoli Recipes
Cavatelli and broccoli is a delightful Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of homemade pasta with the goodness of broccoli.
This simple recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Boil cavatelli until tender, sauté broccoli with garlic, and toss them together with olive oil and grated Parmesan. A burst of flavors in every bite, this dish is both delicious and nutritious
1. Cavatelli and Broccoli Alfredo
Indulge in creamy goodness with this Cavatelli and Broccoli Alfredo. After sautéing your broccoli, stir in a homemade Alfredo sauce made with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Toss it all together with cavatelli pasta for a luscious, comforting dish.
2. Cavatelli and Broccoli Pesto
For a burst of vibrant flavor, try Cavatelli and Broccoli Pesto. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to create a fragrant pesto sauce. Toss it with the cavatelli and sautéed broccoli for a green and delightful meal.
3. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Lemon Zest
Brighten up your plate with Cavatelli and Broccoli with Lemon Zest. After cooking, toss the cavatelli and broccoli with lemon zest and a drizzle of olive oil. This simple twist adds a zesty, citrusy dimension to the dish.
4. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Add a touch of Mediterranean flair with Cavatelli and Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Sauté the broccoli and toss it with cavatelli, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of garlic. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a flavorful experience.
5. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your meal with Cavatelli and Broccoli with Balsamic Glaze. After cooking, drizzle a reduction of balsamic vinegar and honey over the cavatelli and broccoli. The sweet and tangy glaze creates a delightful contrast.
6. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Cherry Tomatoes
For a burst of color and freshness, prepare Cavatelli and Broccoli with Cherry Tomatoes. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes after sautéing the broccoli. Their juicy sweetness balances the dish perfectly.
7. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Roasted Garlic
Indulge in rich flavors with Cavatelli and Broccoli with Roasted Garlic. Roast a head of garlic, mash the cloves, and mix them with the cavatelli and sautéed broccoli. The result is a savory, aromatic delight.
8. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Ricotta Cheese
Creamy and comforting, Cavatelli and Broccoli with Ricotta Cheese is a winner. Stir ricotta cheese into the hot pasta and broccoli for a velvety sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
9. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Pine Nuts
Add a satisfying crunch to your dish with Cavatelli and Broccoli with Pine Nuts. Toast pine nuts and toss them with the cavatelli and sautéed broccoli. Their nutty flavor complements the dish beautifully.
10. Cavatelli and Broccoli with Bacon Bits
Indulge in savory goodness with Cavatelli and Broccoli with Bacon Bits. Cook bacon until crispy, crumble it, and sprinkle it over the cavatelli and broccoli. The smoky, salty flavor takes this dish to the next level.
Cavatelli and broccoli make for a delightful pairing in these 10 simple recipes. From classic Italian flavors to modern twists, these dishes showcase the versatility of this pasta and the freshness of broccoli. Whether you prefer creamy sauces or zesty garlic, there’s a recipe here for every palate. Try them all and discover new ways to enjoy this satisfying combination.
