Linguine with Cauliflower: A Flavorful and Nutritious Pasta Dish
Looking for a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that’s also nutritious and easy to make? Look no further than linguine with cauliflower! This delightful recipe combines tender pasta with roasted cauliflower, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon zest for a flavorful and wholesome meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re a pasta lover looking for a new twist or someone trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this linguine with cauliflower recipe is a winner.
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the garlic and toss to coat evenly with the garlic-infused oil.
- Add the roasted cauliflower to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the pasta.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the lemon zest and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and cauliflower mixture.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve the linguine with cauliflower hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the linguine and cauliflower mixture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Creamy Sauce: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
- Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto and low-carb version of this linguine with cauliflower recipe, simply replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. You can also reduce the amount of cauliflower and increase the protein content by adding more grilled chicken or tofu. Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep it dairy-free and keto-friendly.
In conclusion, linguine with cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender roasted cauliflower, aromatic garlic, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings while still providing plenty of nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself just how delicious and versatile linguine with cauliflower can be
