Imagine a mouthwatering meal that combines the delicate elegance of angel hair pasta with the vibrant crunch of stir-fried broccoli, all brought together in just 20 minutes! This Asian-inspired recipe is not just a quick fix, but a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family or dinner guests with minimal effort. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for a fast and nutritious meal, or simply craving a delightful fusion of flavors, this Angel Hair Pasta with Stir Fried Broccoli is about to become your new go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add angel hair pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes until al dente. Avoid overcooking, as angel hair pasta can become mushy quickly.
- While pasta is cooking, wash broccoli florets thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
- Heat sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, maintaining a crisp texture.
- Drain cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Add soy sauce to the broccoli and stir to coat evenly.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with broccoli and toss gently to combine, using reserved pasta water if needed to help mix.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Angel hair pasta cooks extremely quickly, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking. Aim for that perfect al dente texture by testing a strand a minute before the package instructions suggest.
- Broccoli Brilliance: For the best stir-fry, ensure your broccoli is completely dry before adding to the hot oil. Wet broccoli can cause splattering and prevent proper caramelization.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the dish a tangy or spicy kick.
- Prep Ahead: Chop all ingredients before you start cooking. This dish moves quickly, and having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Sauce Consistency: Reserve some pasta water to help create a light sauce that coats the pasta and broccoli evenly. The starchy water helps bind the ingredients together.
- Garnish Game: Fresh green onions are crucial for adding a final burst of flavor and color. Don't skip this simple but impactful finishing touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg