Ina Garten’s Broccoli Pasta is a cozy, no-fuss dish that brings together perfectly cooked pasta, tender broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe celebrates clean, comforting flavors with minimal ingredients. It’s a fantastic go-to meal when you want something healthy, hearty, and quick.

What Is Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta?

This dish combines pasta—typically orecchiette, penne, or spaghetti—with lightly blanched or sautéed broccoli, garlic, olive oil, and freshly grated Parmesan. Sometimes red pepper flakes or lemon zest are added for a bit of brightness and kick. It’s a satisfying vegetarian option and a great way to get greens into your meal without compromising on taste.

Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta recipe — Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Broccoli Pasta

Quick and easy for busy weeknights
Healthy and naturally vegetarian
Minimal, pantry-friendly ingredients
Perfect way to use fresh or leftover broccoli
Comforting without being heavy
Great for meal prep or leftovers
Can be customized with proteins or extra veggies

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, orecchiette, or penne)
1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: toasted pine nuts, fresh parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Boil the pasta and broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender. Remove broccoli with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Sauté garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).

Step 3: Toss everything together

Add cooked broccoli to the skillet and toss with the garlic oil. Then add the drained pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Mix in lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Finish and serve

Toss until everything is well-coated and warmed through. Top with more Parmesan and serve immediately. Add pine nuts or herbs if desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Grilled chicken or shrimp – Adds protein and turns it into a full meal
Crusty garlic bread – Ideal for scooping up extra sauce
Simple green salad – Balances the richness with freshness
White wine or sparkling water – Complements the lemon and garlic
Roasted mushrooms or asparagus – Great veggie sides to accompany
Chili oil drizzle – For spice lovers who want an extra kick
Soft poached egg on top – Adds richness and makes it brunch-worthy

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Cut broccoli into small florets – Helps it cook quickly and blend well
Don’t overcook the broccoli – Keep it bright green and slightly firm
Use pasta water to loosen the sauce – Adds body and binds the flavors
Grate your own Parmesan – Fresher and melts better than pre-shredded
Adjust garlic and chili to your taste – Personalize spice levels
Lemon zest adds brightness – Don’t skip it if you like citrus notes
Toast pine nuts beforehand – Adds depth and nutty flavor

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Add rotisserie chicken or sausage – Makes it more filling
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano – For a saltier, sharper cheese
Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options – Fits dietary needs
Stir in ricotta or mascarpone – Adds creaminess without making a heavy sauce
Toss in baby spinach or kale – Boosts nutrition with extra greens
Include sun-dried tomatoes or olives – For a Mediterranean twist
Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil – Turns it into an elegant entrée

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Refrigerate in airtight container – Best enjoyed within 3 days
Cool completely before storing – Prevents condensation
Keep cheese separate if possible – Helps retain best texture
Don’t freeze – Pasta and broccoli can become mushy when thawed
Label and date container – Useful for meal prep tracking

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Broccoli Pasta

Use stovetop over medium heat – Add a splash of water or broth to loosen
Microwave in 30-second intervals – Stir to heat evenly
Avoid high heat – Prevents pasta from drying out or broccoli from overcooking
Stir in a touch of olive oil before reheating – Helps refresh the dish
Add fresh herbs or lemon juice – Restores flavor brightness

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 380
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 320mg

A balanced, veggie-packed pasta dish that satisfies without being heavy.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Broccoli and Bow Ties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the pasta and broccoli, and store them separately from the sauce. Combine and reheat gently before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

What type of pasta is best for Broccoli and Bow Ties?

Farfalle, commonly known as bow tie pasta, is traditionally used in this recipe. Its shape holds the sauce well and pairs nicely with the broccoli florets.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or cooked pancetta can be added to enhance the protein content, making it a more substantial meal.

Is there a substitute for pine nuts in this recipe?

If pine nuts are unavailable, toasted slivered almonds or chopped walnuts can be used as alternatives to provide a similar nutty crunch.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Broccoli Pasta proves that simplicity is powerful. With a handful of pantry staples, fresh vegetables, and bright seasoning, this dish delivers on both flavor and comfort. It’s ideal for quick weeknight meals, meatless Mondays, or whenever you need a cozy yet clean plate of food.