Light & Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
• 12 oz shell pasta (or any pasta you love)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to the package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets.

2. Drain and Reserve

Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Then, drain the pasta and broccoli together.

3. Sauté the Garlic

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute.

4. Combine and Stir

Add the pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together.

5. Add Cheese and Serve

Stir in parmesan cheese until creamy and coated. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Variations

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different nutritional profile.
• Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
• Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Cooking Note

If you prefer a smoother texture, blend half of the cooked broccoli with some pasta water before adding it back to the dish. This creates a rich, velvety sauce without cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. Sprinkle additional parmesan or chili flakes for a kick.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Timing

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Swap pasta with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.
• Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a higher smoke point.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the broccoli – keep it slightly crisp for texture.
• Skipping the pasta water – it’s crucial for emulsifying the sauce.
• Adding cheese while the skillet is too hot – it may clump instead of melt.

Conclusion

Whether you’re after a light weeknight meal or meal-prepping healthy pasta for lunch, this Broccoli Pasta hits all the right notes. Try it today and don’t forget to leave a comment or share your favorite variation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw it first and drain excess water before adding it to the pasta.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Kids love cheesy pasta, and broccoli becomes much more palatable when coated in parmesan!

How can I make it vegan?
Use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast, and skip the cheese altogether if needed.