Ziti with Broccoli
A classic Italian-American comfort dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender-crisp broccoli florets tossed with ziti pasta in a simple garlic and olive oil sauce, finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- b.Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt.
- c.Add the ziti and cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- d.About 4 minutes before the pasta is al dente, add the broccoli florets to the pot to cook alongside the pasta.
- e.Before draining, carefully scoop out and reserve about 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water. This is crucial for creating the sauce.
- f.Drain the pasta and broccoli well in a colander.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Garlic Oil Sauce
- b.While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the thinly sliced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn a light golden color. Do not let it brown or it will become bitter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and Finish the Dish
- b.Add the drained ziti and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- c.Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and add 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- d.Stir and toss continuously over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and the pasta water emulsifies with the oil to create a light, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- e.If the sauce seems too thick or dry, add another splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- f.Turn off the heat. Season with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The starchy pasta water is the key to creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta. Don't skip reserving it!
- 2For the best flavor and texture, use a block of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- 3Be very careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic will make the entire dish bitter. Sauté it just until it's fragrant and lightly golden.
- 4Blanching the broccoli with the pasta saves time and an extra pot. For crisper broccoli, add it in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- 5For a brighter flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end just before serving.
- 6This dish is best served immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Incorporate grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier meal. Add the cooked protein in step 3.
Extra VegetablesExtra Vegetables
Toss in a handful of baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers along with the pasta in step 3 for added flavor and nutrients.
Creamier SauceCreamier Sauce
For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the very end, after turning off the heat.
Add a CrunchAdd a Crunch
Top the finished dish with toasted breadcrumbs (panko) or toasted pine nuts for a delightful textural contrast.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C & K
Broccoli is an excellent source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and Vitamin K, which is crucial for bone health and blood clotting.
Source of Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by helping to reduce 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels.
Provides Dietary Fiber
The broccoli in this dish contributes significant dietary fiber, which is essential for promoting digestive health, maintaining stable blood sugar levels, and aiding in satiety.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving contains approximately 580-620 calories, primarily from the pasta, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. The exact count can vary based on specific ingredients used.