Servings: 4

Per serving: 168 calories, 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, 5g fat, 3mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 oz fettuccine, broken up
• 1 Tbs cooking oil
• 3 Tbs grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large saucepan, cook the broccoli and fettuccine in a large amount of boiling water for 6-8 minutes or just until tender, stirring once or twice. Drain the pasta and broccoli.
2. Add the cooking oil to the pasta and broccoli mixture and toss to coat.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, toasted sesame seeds, garlic powder, and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
4. Serve the dish immediately.

Here are a few variations you can try with the given recipe:

1. Creamy Broccoli Pasta: Instead of tossing the pasta with oil, add a creamy element to the dish. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk or cream while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices. Combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and the creamy sauce for a rich and indulgent variation.
2. Lemon Garlic Broccoli Pasta: Enhance the flavor with a fresh and tangy twist. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add the cooked broccoli and pasta to the pan, then squeeze the juice of one lemon over the mixture. Toss to coat evenly and sprinkle with lemon zest for added brightness. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
3. Protein-Packed Broccoli Pasta: Boost the protein content of the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Season the protein with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices before cooking or sautéing. Toss the cooked protein with the pasta, broccoli, and other ingredients for a complete and satisfying meal.
4. Spicy Broccoli Pasta: If you enjoy spicy flavors, add a kick to the dish. Sauté sliced red chili peppers or crushed red pepper flakes in the oil before adding the broccoli and pasta. Adjust the amount of heat to your preference. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top to balance the spiciness.
5. Mediterranean Broccoli Pasta: Give the dish a Mediterranean twist by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss the cooked pasta, broccoli, and other ingredients with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. This variation offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Here’s some more information about this dish:

• Broccoli: Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that adds a vibrant green color and a mild, slightly earthy flavor to the dish. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to the meal.
• Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine pasta is a long, flat noodle that pairs well with the broccoli. It provides a hearty and satisfying base for the dish. Fettuccine has a slightly wider shape compared to other pasta varieties, allowing it to hold the sauce and ingredients well.
• Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor to the dish. It melts slightly when combined with the warm pasta and creates a creamy texture. Parmesan cheese is a popular choice for pasta dishes due to its distinct taste.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: The toasted sesame seeds add a subtle nutty flavor and a slight crunch to the dish. Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their aroma and taste, making them a delightful addition.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder infuses the dish with a hint of garlic flavor without the need to mince or sauté fresh garlic. It adds a savory note and complements the other ingredients.