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Healthy Broccoli Pasta Nutritious

Healthy Broccoli Pasta: Your 1 Nutritious Meal

  • Author: Jannet Lisa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick and easy whole wheat pasta dish featuring tender broccoli, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bright lemon juice dressing. This healthy meal is perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound whole wheat pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly. Cut large florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Peel and chop the broccoli stalk if desired.
  2. Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
  3. Fill a large pot with at least 6 quarts of water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a rolling boil.
  4. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  5. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta in a colander.
  6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
  7. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  8. Add the broccoli florets (and stalk, if using) to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
  9. Sauté the broccoli for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  10. Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  11. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Toss to combine.
  12. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
  13. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  14. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
  15. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. Offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table.

Notes

  • Broccoli Alternatives: Cauliflower, asparagus, or peas can be substituted for broccoli.
  • Cheese Variations: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
  • Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
  • Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamier sauce.
  • Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast instead. Use a plant-based milk alternative for a creamier sauce.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the broccoli and garlic ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook the pasta.
  • Leftovers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing and Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe

Keywords: Healthy Broccoli Pasta, Nutritious Broccoli Pasta, Whole Wheat Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Weeknight Meal, Broccoli Recipe, Garlic Parmesan Pasta, Lemon Broccoli Pasta

Find it online: https://recipesoptimal.com/healthy-broccoli-pasta-nutritious/