The Frugal Gourmet’s Angel Hair Pasta with Broccoli and Three Cheese: A Taste of Simple Elegance

There’s a particular magic that happens when humble ingredients are transformed into something truly special, and Jeff Smith’s “Angel Hair Pasta with Broccoli and Three Cheese” is a shining example. I remember the first time I encountered this dish, not on television, but in the pages of his iconic cookbook. It was a revelation – a dish so deceptively simple, yet packed with layers of flavor and comforting texture, that it felt like a warm embrace on a busy weeknight. It was the kind of meal that made you feel like a gourmet chef without requiring a pantry full of exotic ingredients, proving that deliciousness often lies in the thoughtful combination of the ordinary.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb angel hair pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 lb broccoli, florets only
• 1/3 cup whipping cream
• 1/4 lb Swiss cheese, grated
• 4 tablespoons Romano cheese, grated
• 3 tablespoons Mizithra cheese, grated
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese

Instructions

This dish is a masterclass in efficient cooking, designed to bring maximum flavor to your table with minimal fuss. The key is timing and the harmonious interplay of textures and tastes.

1. Prepare the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the 1/2 lb of angel hair pasta. This delicate pasta cooks incredibly quickly, so keep a close watch. It typically takes only 2 to 4 minutes to reach al dente. Do not overcook; the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the other ingredients.

2. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: While the pasta water heats up, place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the 2 crushed garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, or until it just begins to turn fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

3. Soften the Onion and Broccoli: Add the 1/2 chopped yellow onion to the skillet with the garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion has softened and become translucent. Next, add the 1/2 lb of broccoli florets. Continue to sauté for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broccoli is barely tender. You want it to retain a slight crispness, not become mushy.

4. Introduce the Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the 1/3 cup of whipping cream into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir gently to combine. Season generously with fresh ground pepper and salt, if you wish. Allow the cream to warm through for about a minute, but do not let it boil vigorously.

5. Combine and Toss: By now, your angel hair pasta should be perfectly cooked. Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander. Return the drained pasta to the large pot (or you can add it directly to the skillet if it’s large enough to hold everything comfortably).

6. Melt the Cheeses: Add the 1/4 lb of grated Swiss cheese, 4 tablespoons of grated Romano cheese, and 3 tablespoons of grated Mizithra cheese directly onto the hot, drained pasta. Toss immediately and vigorously. The residual heat from the pasta will begin to melt the cheeses, creating a wonderfully creamy sauce that coats each strand.

7. Unite the Elements: Add the sautéed broccoli and onion mixture, along with the cream, to the pasta and cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta, vegetables, and cheese sauce are well combined. Ensure every strand of pasta is coated in the luscious sauce.

8. Serve: Portion the pasta into individual bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish with chopped parsley, if using. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For a truly restaurant-worthy dish, consider these seasoned chef insights:

• Pasta Water Magic: Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. If your sauce seems a little too thick once everything is tossed, you can add a tablespoon or two of this reserved water to loosen it up and help the sauce emulsify beautifully.
• Cheese Quality Matters: While this recipe is designed to be frugal, using good quality grated cheeses will elevate the flavor significantly. Pre-shredded cheeses can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own cheeses from a block is always best.
• Broccoli Bite: The instruction to cook broccoli “barely tender” is crucial. It should still have a vibrant green color and a slight al dente texture. Overcooked broccoli can become dull and mushy, detracting from the overall appeal of the dish.
• Don’t Fear the Garlic: Crushing the garlic cloves instead of mincing them allows their flavor to infuse the oil more gently and prevents them from burning as easily.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Angel Hair Pasta with Broccoli and Three Cheese is best enjoyed fresh, straight from the skillet. Its light yet satisfying nature makes it a perfect main course.

• Serving: Serve in warm pasta bowls, perhaps with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread would complement this dish wonderfully.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it, again with a little liquid, until heated through. Be mindful not to overcook the pasta when reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for this delicious pasta dish. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	528.3 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	241 kcal	–
Total Fat	26.9 g	41%
Saturated Fat	13.2 g	65%
Cholesterol	68 mg	22%
Sodium	254.4 mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	50.6 g	16%
Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	14%
Sugars	3.1 g	12%
Protein	21.8 g	43%

(Note: % Daily Value is based on a 2,000-calorie diet.)

Variations & Substitutions

While the original recipe is superb, feel free to explore these variations:

• Vegetable Swap: If broccoli isn’t your favorite, consider using asparagus spears (cut into bite-sized pieces), peas, or chopped zucchini. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Cheese Options: While the three cheese blend is iconic, feel free to experiment. A good quality Parmesan could substitute for Romano, or Gruyère could stand in for Swiss. However, the Mizithra cheese contributes a unique salty, slightly tangy note that’s worth seeking out if possible.
• Cream Alternative: For a lighter version, you could try using half-and-half instead of whipping cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
• A Touch of Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the garlic and onions.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, while angel hair is ideal for its quick cooking and delicate texture, you could use other thin pastas like spaghetti or linguine. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Is it important to crush the garlic?
A: Crushing the garlic allows its flavor to infuse into the olive oil more gently, preventing it from burning as quickly as minced garlic.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together after draining?
A: Ensure your pasta water is well-salted and that you toss the pasta immediately with the sauce and cheeses. The starch from the pasta, combined with the fats from the cheese and oil, helps prevent sticking.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the vegetables and sauce mixture in advance and reheat it before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Q: What kind of cheese is Mizithra?
A: Mizithra is a Greek brined whey cheese made from sheep’s milk, or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a salty, slightly tangy flavor. If you can’t find it, you could use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a similar salty profile.

Final Thoughts

The Frugal Gourmet’s Angel Hair Pasta with Broccoli and Three Cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful, accessible cooking. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need a Michelin star to create something truly memorable. I encourage you to gather these simple ingredients, engage in the process, and savor the delightful results. It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones or to enjoy as a comforting solo meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light, effervescent sparkling water for a complete and satisfying experience. Happy cooking!