Pasta with broccoli and cherry tomatoes

Delicious Tagliolini Pasta Recipe with Broccoli and Cherry Tomatoes

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe that is also healthy, you have come to the right place! This pasta recipe with broccoli and cherry tomatoes is perfect for a light yet flavorful dinner. The fresh aroma of the vegetables, along with the fine texture of the tagliolini pasta, will surely captivate you. Here’s how to prepare this dish in a few simple yet effective steps.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 250 g fresh tagliolini pasta
- 1 bunch of broccoli
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1/2 white onion
- 30 g butter
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and peperoncino (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Preparation:

1. Cooking the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water with a teaspoon of salt to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the tagliolini pasta. Since they are fresh, it will be enough to boil them for 2-3 minutes. Use a fork to separate them so they don’t stick together. After they are cooked, drain them, but keep a few tablespoons of the cooking water.

2. Preparing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat. Let it become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the washed broccoli florets along with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the broccoli steam for 5 minutes until tender but still crisp.

3. Adding garlic and tomatoes: After the broccoli has steamed, add the whole garlic clove (this will give a subtle flavor) and the halved cherry tomatoes. If necessary, you can add a little more water to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the pan. Let them cook together for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes become soft and release their juice.

4. Finishing the dish: Once the vegetables are well cooked, add the butter and gently mix. Season with salt, pepper, and, if you like, a pinch of peperoncino for a spicy flavor. Then, add the cooked pasta and a little of the cooking water. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

5. Serving: For a perfect finish, serve the pasta warm with freshly grated Parmesan on top. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and freshness. This pasta is ideal for a romantic dinner or a family meal.

Helpful tips:

- Vegetables: You can vary the vegetables according to the season. For example, carrots or zucchini can be an excellent choice instead of broccoli.
- Pasta: If you can’t find tagliolini, you can use any type of long pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.
- Garlic: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can chop the garlic and add it along with the onion.
- Parmesan: Instead of Parmesan, you can also use another type of aged cheese, such as pecorino, for a different flavor.

Nutritional information:

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and fiber, while cherry tomatoes provide antioxidants and a sweet-tart taste. Fresh pasta is a healthier option, having a lower calorie content compared to dried pasta. A serving of pasta with broccoli and cherry tomatoes contains approximately 450-500 calories.

Ideal pairings:

This pasta is perfect alongside a glass of dry white wine or freshly made lemonade with mint. You can also accompany the meal with a simple green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option, but make sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
- How can I store leftovers? You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in a skillet to maintain texture.
- Is this recipe vegan? To make the recipe vegan, you can omit the butter and Parmesan, using olive oil and nutritional yeast instead to add an umami flavor.

I hope you find this recipe engaging and easy to follow! Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, the pasta with broccoli and cherry tomatoes will bring an explosion of flavors and colors to your table. Enjoy!