Broccoli Bowtie Pasta

Looking for a light yet satisfying pasta dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? This Broccoli and Bow Ties recipe combines tender farfalle, vibrant broccoli, and a lemony garlic butter sauce for a simple, elegant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers on flavor, texture, and nutrition. The toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch, and a touch of grated Parmesan (if you choose to include it) finishes the dish with savory depth.

Ingredients

• Kosher salt

• 8 cups broccoli florets (from about 4 heads)

• 1/2 pound farfalle (bow tie) pasta

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons good olive oil

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1/4 cup toasted pignoli (pine) nuts

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Blanch the broccoli:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Remove with a slotted spoon or sieve and set aside in a large bowl.

2. Cook the pasta:
   In the same pot of boiling water, cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions (about 12 minutes). Drain thoroughly and add to the bowl with the broccoli.

3. Make the lemon garlic sauce:
   In a small sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons kosher salt, the pepper, and fresh lemon juice.

4. Combine and serve:
   Pour the sauce over the broccoli and pasta. Toss gently to combine and season to taste. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and Parmesan if using. Serve warm.

How to Toast Pine Nuts

Place the pine nuts in a dry sauté pan over medium-low heat. Stir or toss frequently for about 5 minutes, until they turn light golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Watch closely they burn quickly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced flavor: The lemon, garlic, and Parmesan create a vibrant, savory combination.

• Nutrient-rich: Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making this a wholesome option.

• Family-friendly: Mild flavors and fun bow tie shapes make this dish appealing to adults and kids alike.

• Quick to make: From start to finish in under half an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.

Broccoli and bow ties is a dish that’s light enough for lunch but satisfying enough for dinner. Pair it with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.

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