Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together the fresh taste of broccoli and the comforting texture of pasta. It’s an easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or times when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. The blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese adds a delightful flavor, making this dish a family favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s packed with nutrients thanks to the broccoli, which is rich in vitamins and minerals. Second, it is simple to prepare and can be made in about 30 minutes. Lastly, it’s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other proteins like chicken or shrimp.
How to Make Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Making Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is straightforward. Follow the steps below to create this delicious meal.
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.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the broccoli pieces to the pot.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a little pasta water.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot. Toss with the garlic oil and add salt and black pepper to taste.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water.
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve immediately while warm.
How to Serve Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Serve your Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta in bowls, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color. This dish pairs well with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Leftover Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen it up.
Tips to Make Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta
- Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for more variety.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a new flavor profile.
Variation
You can easily turn this dish into a protein-packed meal by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Just mix them in when tossing the pasta together.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
3. How can I make it spicy?
If you like your pasta with a kick, you can add more crushed red pepper or even a dash of chili flakes when tossing the pasta.
Enjoy your cooking and savor the goodness of this Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta!
Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli, trimmed into small pieces
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Flavoring Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli pieces to the pot.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a little pasta water.
Sautéing and Combining
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot, tossing with the garlic oil and adding salt and black pepper to taste.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
- Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Serving
- Serve immediately while warm, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.