Description
This Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry with Pasta is a quick and delicious dish, featuring tender pasta tossed with crisp broccoli, garlic, and a savory stir-fry sauce. Light yet flavorful, it’s the perfect easy meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry with Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional for an Asian twist)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sesame oil (if using). Once the oils are hot, add the broccoli florets and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccoli should become slightly tender and start to develop a bit of crispness on the edges. If using frozen broccoli, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Once the broccoli is tender, add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) to the skillet. Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. The ginger will add a nice kick and freshness to the dish.
While the broccoli is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking by adding more honey or vinegar, depending on your preference.
Once the garlic and ginger are fragrant, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together using tongs or a pasta spoon. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to help create a silky sauce that coats the pasta and broccoli evenly. Stir well to ensure that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Once everything is well combined and heated through, transfer the Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry with Pasta to serving plates. Garnish with sesame seeds, fresh parsley or cilantro, and additional red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 50-55g
- Protein: 6-8g