If you are craving a dish that combines rich, velvety textures with vibrant, fresh flavors, this Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together juicy grape tomatoes, tender broccoli florets, and luscious coconut milk to create a sauce so comforting, you will find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic gives this pasta a delightful depth, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but bring incredible flavor and texture to the dish. Each element not only enriches the taste, but also adds layers of color and freshness that make this recipe truly special.
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and aromatic base for the sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and build a fragrant foundation.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish perfectly.
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juiciness and a slightly tangy flavor that brightens the sauce.
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a wonderful depth and warmth.
- 1 medium head broccoli, florets cut small: Adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
- 2 tbsp water: Keeps the broccoli cooking moist and tender without extra oil.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, giving the sauce richness and body.
- 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes: Adds a rustic, slightly chunky texture to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Provides an intense, sweet-savory tomato punch.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky goodness and complements fresh garlic.
- 7.5 oz full-fat coconut milk: Makes the sauce decadently creamy while keeping it dairy-free.
- Black pepper, for serving: Adds just the right finishing hint of spice.
- 8 oz pasta (your choice): The perfect vehicle to soak up all that glorious sauce.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your chosen pasta in salted water according to the package instructions, aiming for a perfect al dente bite. Once ready, drain and set the pasta aside to be incorporated later. This step ensures your noodles remain firm enough to hold up beautifully under the rich sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Season
In a large pan set over medium heat, warm your olive oil before adding the finely chopped yellow onion and kosher salt. Cook these gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, creating a sweet and fragrant foundation that invites all the other flavors into the sauce.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Garlic, and Broccoli
Next, toss in the halved grape tomatoes, minced garlic, and small broccoli florets along with 2 tablespoons of water to help steam and tenderize the broccoli. Stir everything together, cover the pan, and let the ingredients cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli reaches just the right tenderness, making the dish colorful and nutritious.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic powder for a layered tomato flavor that deeply satisfies. Then, pour in the full-fat coconut milk and allow the mixture to simmer gently until it thickens into a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the pasta to come.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add your cooked pasta directly into the pan with the creamy tomato broccoli sauce. Toss everything together to combine and cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes so the noodles absorb all the rich flavors. Finish with a few cracks of fresh black pepper before serving warm and enjoying every bite of this comforting, vibrant dish.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a handful of toasted pine nuts elevates this Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe to a new level. These garnishes add a bright fresh herbaceous note or a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the sauce.
Side Dishes
Serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to add texture contrasts and balance out the meal. The simplicity of the sides lets the star—the Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe—shine through beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in hollowed-out roasted tomatoes or sprinkle with vegan parmesan cheese alternative for a savory, cheesy touch. Presenting the dish family-style in a large bowl encourages sharing and brings a cozy vibe to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect ready-meal for busy nights.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish successfully by placing portions in freezer-safe containers. Keep it for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results to preserve the creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra coconut milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming and to keep that silky, creamy consistency intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes! While full-fat coconut milk gives the best creamy texture and subtle sweetness, you can substitute with cashew cream or another plant-based milk, though the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe is dairy-free and can easily fit a vegan diet as long as you choose vegan pasta options and avoid adding cheese.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add different textures and flavors that complement the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.
What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta you love works great here, but shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli help capture the sauce well, making each bite delightfully saucy and balanced.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer to reduce. For a thinner sauce, add a little more coconut milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers a comforting, satisfying flavor combo that everyone will love. I hope you give it a try soon and discover just how delicious and vibrant a simple pasta dish can be!
Print
Creamy Tomato Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A creamy and flavorful tomato pasta dish infused with fresh broccoli and a rich coconut milk sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium head broccoli, florets cut small, large stem removed
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 7.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Black pepper, for serving
Other
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta. Boil pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics. In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and chopped onion along with kosher salt. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Cook Vegetables. Add halved grape tomatoes, minced garlic, and broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of water to the pan. Stir to combine, cover with a lid, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Add Tomato Mixtures and Simmer. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic powder. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce. Add the cooked pasta into the pan with the creamy tomato and broccoli sauce. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to let all the flavors meld. Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well.
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the sauce.
- If you like a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the aromatics.
- The coconut milk gives a creamy texture while keeping the recipe dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- To save time, prepare the sauce while the pasta cooks.
