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Red-Wine Spaghetti with Broccoli

This striking red wine spaghetti with broccoli is a sophisticated vegetarian main course that brings a sense of occasion to the dinner table. By boiling the pasta directly in a bottle of red wine, the strands take on a deep, autumnal hue and a complex, savoury flavour that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the greens. It is a visually stunning dish that feels indulgent yet remains incredibly simple to prepare using store-cupboard staples.

Ideal for a cosy weeknight treat or an impressive dinner party option, this recipe balances the richness of the wine with the heat of dried chilli flakes and the salty punch of Parmigiano-Reggiano. The broccoli adds a welcome crunch to the tender al dente pasta, creating a well-rounded meal. For the best results, choose a bold red such as a Zinfandel or Malbec to ensure the most vibrant colour and depth.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Red-Wine Spaghetti with Broccoli

  • 800g broccoli, thick stems discarded

  • 450g spaghetti

  • 1 (750-ml) bottle red wine (preferably Zinfandel)

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped (2 tablespoons )

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried hot red pepper flakes

  • 80ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 3/4 teaspoons salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

  • 30g finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (120ml )

  • Accompaniment: finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

How to make Red-Wine Spaghetti with Broccoli

Cut broccoli into 1-inch-wide florets (with 1/2 inch of stem). Blanch in a 6- to 8-quart pot of boiling salted water , uncovered, 2 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large colander to drain, reserving broccoli-cooking liquid in pot, then transfer broccoli to a bowl.

Return cooking liquid to a boil and cook spaghetti, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes (pasta will not be fully cooked). Drain in colander and return empty pot to stovetop. Add wine and sugar to pot and boil vigorously 2 minutes. Add spaghetti and shake pot to prevent pasta from sticking. Gently stir with tongs until coated and boil over high heat, stirring occasionally, until most of liquid is absorbed, about 6 minutes (pasta will be al dente).

Immediately after adding spaghetti to wine mixture, cook garlic and red pepper flakes in oil in a deep 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately low heat, shaking skillet occasionally, until garlic is pale golden, about 5 minutes. Add broccoli, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring, 1 minute.

Increase heat to high and pour spaghetti mixture into skillet, tossing with tongs to combine (skillet will be very full). Cook, stirring, until all of wine is absorbed, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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