Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal without the heaviness. The combination of whole grain pasta and fresh broccoli provides a wholesome balance of carbohydrates and vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a light dinner or a hearty lunch. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish is both budget-friendly and delicious, proving that healthy meals can be both easy and flavorful.

Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

12 oz whole grain penne pasta
4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
Season and Serve: Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss again to combine and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese and substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before adding to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pasta and broccoli in advance and store them separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be portioned out for easy lunches throughout the week.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Certainly! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a mild heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative to Parmesan. You can also try a dairy-free cheese substitute if needed.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?

Lemon zest adds a more intense lemon flavor, but you can substitute with additional lemon juice if desired.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions to make the dish more filling.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. Just ensure the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians.

Conclusion

The Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines the goodness of whole grain pasta and fresh broccoli. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether enjoyed on its own or with added protein, this dish offers a delicious and nutritious option for any meal.

Chef Sophia