Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with the satisfying texture of penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light weekend meal, offering a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Packed with vitamins and tossed in a garlic-infused olive oil, this dish is sure to impress both your taste buds and your health-conscious side.

Why Make This Recipe

Choosing Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta means opting for a meal that is not only delicious but also balanced and nourishing. Broccoli is loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, while the addition of whole grain pasta provides sustained energy. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine, making this dish both accessible and satisfying.

How to Make Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Creating this scrumptious pasta dish is easy and quick, perfect for anyone looking to whip up a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 large broccoli head, trimmed into small pieces
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 minced garlic cloves
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 ounces penne pasta
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
During the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pot of pasta. This allows the broccoli to blanch while the pasta finishes cooking.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot, tossing them with the garlic-infused oil. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in the grated parmesan cheese until well combined.
Serve immediately.

How to Serve Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

To serve, divide the pasta into bowls and top with additional grated parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh black pepper, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

How to Store

To keep your Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help rejuvenate the sauce.

Tips to Make

For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the dish.
Experiment with other vegetables such as spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for variation.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving.

Variation

For a vegan version of this dish, simply omit the parmesan cheese and substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also replace the penne pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, keeping the dish fully adaptable to different dietary preferences.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pasta.

What can I use instead of penne pasta?
You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or spaghetti, to match your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pasta dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep, as it reheats well.