Broccoli and smoked almond spaghetti

Broccoli and smoked almond spaghetti combines vibrant broccoli, rich ricotta, and smoky almonds for a nutritious pasta dish. The blend of fresh herbs and spices adds layers of flavor to this quick and satisfying meal.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
16 oz broccoli
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/3 cup almonds
2 red peppers
1/4 cup olive oil
2 red hot chili peppers
1 tsp dried coriander
2 tsp ground cumin
2 garlic cloves
1 cup coriander leaves
1/2 cup spearmint
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1/3 cup lemon juice

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with this Broccoli and Smoked Almond Spaghetti recipe. This dish combines the vibrant taste of fresh vegetables and herbs with the hearty crunch of smoked almonds, making it a delightful and nutritious meal for pasta lovers.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prep Broccoli:
- While the pasta is cooking, blanch the broccoli florets in the boiling pasta water for about 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

3. Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the diced red bell peppers and chopped red hot chili peppers, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Season and Combine:
- Stir in the dried coriander and ground cumin, cooking for another minute.
- Add the blanched broccoli florets to the skillet, tossing them to coat well with the seasoned oil and peppers.

5. Pasta and Ricotta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
- Turn off the heat and fold in the ricotta cheese until it's well distributed, making sure the pasta is evenly coated.

6. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the chopped smoked almonds, coriander leaves, spearmint, and parsley over the pasta.
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, toss everything gently to combine.

7. Plating:
- Serve the broccoli and smoked almond spaghetti immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

With a balance of spicy, smoky, and fresh flavors, this Broccoli and Smoked Almond Spaghetti is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the satisfying mix of textures and the unique taste. Serve it up for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion to impress your family and friends.

Broccoli and smoked almond spaghetti FAQ:

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta for this dish, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

How can I store leftovers of the Broccoli and Smoked Almond Spaghetti?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the pasta.

Can I substitute almonds with another nut or seed?

Yes, you can substitute smoked almonds with other nuts like walnuts or cashews or use seeds such as sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more red hot chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and peppers.

What is the best way to know the pasta is cooked al dente?

Check the pasta 1-2 minutes before the package cooking time is up. It should be firm to the bite but not hard in the center. Drain immediately when done.

Tips:

- Ensure your broccoli is cooked until tender but still bright green to maintain its freshness and nutritional value.

- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red hot chili peppers or remove the seeds before cooking.

- To make the dish vegan, substitute ricotta cheese with a plant-based alternative or skip it entirely.

- Toast the almonds slightly to intensify their smoky flavor and add extra crunch to the dish.

- Use fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant and zesty flavor.

- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 490kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 80g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 8g
Fat 24g

Broccoli and smoked almond spaghetti