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Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 143 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a vibrant and easy weeknight meal, packed with tender broccoli, whole wheat pasta, and a medley of fresh flavors. This nutritious vegetarian main course comes together quickly for a satisfying dinner that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (such as penne or fusilli)

Vegetables

  • 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce & Flavorings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Cook the Broccoli: About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. This will cook the broccoli just until tender and bright green.
  3. Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Toss Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic oil, adding reserved pasta cooking water as needed for moisture and to help the sauce cling.
  5. Add Flavor and Serve: Stir in lemon zest and juice, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Toss well and taste for seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, pine nuts, and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein if desired.
  • Toss in a handful of spinach with the broccoli for added greens.
  • Skip the Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/light-and-healthy-broccoli-pasta-recipe/