Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli

Introduction

This creamy tomato pasta with broccoli is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fresh vegetables with a rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect quick meal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 medium head broccoli, florets cut small, large stem removed
2 tbsp water
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
7.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
Black pepper, for serving
8 oz pasta (your choice)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onion: Preheat a large pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and chopped onion with kosher salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Add Vegetables: Add halved tomatoes, minced garlic, and broccoli florets to the pan with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir, cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
4. Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic powder. Pour in the coconut milk and bring everything together. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until thickened.
5. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Top with black pepper and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap the vegetables: Try using spinach or kale in place of broccoli.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer!
2. Is there a vegan option for this recipe? Yes, the recipe is already vegan by using coconut milk and omitting any animal products.
3. Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta.
4. What can I use instead of coconut milk? You can use cashew cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
5. How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the vegetable sautéing phase.
6. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, but the pasta may become a bit softer upon reheating. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta.
7. How do I store leftover coconut milk? Store unused coconut milk in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
8. What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes? You can omit them or use fresh tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
9. Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
10. What can I serve with this dish? Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy tomato pasta with broccoli is not only a delicious and quick dish but also versatile and accommodating to various dietary preferences. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this wholesome meal any night of the week!

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