Name: Delicious Broccoli Halloumi Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 250g broccoli florets; 350g pasta (penne or fusilli); 200g halloumi, cubed; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 40g parmesan, finely grated; Zest of ½ lemon; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Looking for a quick yet delicious weeknight meal? Look no further than Broccoli Halloumi Pasta! This delightful dish is a perfect blend of creamy, zesty flavors that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Featuring crispy halloumi, tender broccoli, and a hint of lemon zest, this pasta recipe is as nutritious as it is satisfying. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, it’s an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you want something real and comforting on the table.

The combination of textures is simply irresistible; the golden halloumi adds a satisfying crispiness, while the tender broccoli complements the creamy pasta well. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just discovering the joy of cooking, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be adapted to include your favorite proteins or additional veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Halloumi Pasta

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for meals on busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of creamy halloumi, garlic, and lemon zest creates a mouthwatering dish that bursts with flavor.
Healthy: Packed with broccoli, this dish provides essential vitamins and nutrients.
Versatile: Customize it with your choice of pasta or add your favorite protein to make it your own!
Comfort Food: A warm, satisfying dish that brings joy to every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Broccoli Halloumi Pasta starts with being organized in the kitchen. First, clear your cooking space and ensure you have all your ingredients at hand. You’ll need a large pot for the pasta and a frying pan for the halloumi and garlic. Having a colander on standby will also make draining the pasta easier. Additionally, if you prefer, a citrus zester can help you get the lemon zest with ease, and a sharp knife will make chopping any ingredients a breeze.

Make sure to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is essential for seasoning the pasta as it cooks, and timing is key, so keep an eye on your watch once the water boils. As everything cooks, you’ll also want to grab a tongs or a slotted spoon to help you toss the pasta with the other ingredients later on. The structured preparation ensures seamless cooking and helps elevate your dish to new heights!

Ingredients

250g broccoli florets
350g pasta (penne or fusilli)
200g halloumi, cubed
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
40g parmesan, finely grated
Zest of ½ lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice (either penne or fusilli works well here). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches the al dente stage. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes, but be sure to check your pasta. Meanwhile, when there’s only about 3 minutes left on the timer, gently add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will allow the broccoli to steam and soften slightly without losing its vibrant color.

Step 2: Fry the Halloumi

In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the cubed halloumi to the pan. Fry it for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the halloumi turns golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to keep a close watch, as halloumi can brown quickly! Once cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside on a plate while you prepare the rest of the dish. This will ensure it retains its delicious crispy texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same frying pan used for the halloumi, add the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about a minute, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. This step is crucial as garlic adds a rich flavor depth to your pasta. Swirling the leftover olive oil with the garlic will also incorporate those delightful crispy bits left behind from frying the halloumi.

Step 4: Toss the Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine everything! Once the pasta and broccoli are drained, return them to the pot. Add in the sautéed garlic, along with the finely grated parmesan and lemon zest. Toss everything together, gently mixing until the ingredients are well coated. If you find the mixture too dry, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess.

Step 5: Finish with Halloumi

Finally, stir in the crispy halloumi that you’ve set aside. Gently fold it into the pasta mixture, taking care not to break the halloumi up too much. This will allow every bite to deliver a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Season to taste with salt and pepper, adding extra zest if desired. Serve the dish warm and enjoy the comforting harmony of these simple ingredients!

Variations

Protein: Enhance the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Simply toss them in at the end for a fulfilling meal.
Vegetables: Feel free to include other veggies like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Elevate the flavor by adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or some dried herbs, like thyme or oregano, to deepen the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Be mindful of cooking time for both the pasta and broccoli to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
Do not skip the step of reserving pasta water; it’s an excellent tool for achieving the desired creaminess in the final dish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, reheating slowly on low heat before serving.
When reheating, consider adding a splash of water to keep the pasta from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Broccoli Halloumi Pasta with a side of garlic bread to soak up any leftover creamy goodness.
A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly to balance the richness of the pasta.

Tips

Experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle to switch things up!
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for an extra burst of flavor.
For a richer dish, consider stirring in some cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make great garnishes, adding both color and fresh flavors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 420 per serving
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute halloumi for a plant-based cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What can I use instead of halloumi?

Feta cheese can be a good replacement, although it won’t have the same firm texture when cooked. You could also try using tofu for a plant-based option.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in any other seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.

How long can I store leftover Broccoli Halloumi Pasta?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Broccoli Halloumi Pasta is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting, flavorful embrace that’s perfect for any table. With the incredible combination of crispy halloumi and tender broccoli enveloped in creamy pasta, it’s a recipe that invites creativity and personal flair. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your ingredients and make it truly your own. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this recipe or what variations you tried! Share your thoughts and twinkling inspiration in the comments, and don’t forget to pass this deliciousness along to friends and family who could use a little pasta love in their lives!