Description
This Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a quick, fresh, and nourishing dish made with tender broccoli, garlic, olive oil, lemon, and Parmesan. It’s a perfect balance of carbs and greens for a wholesome, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (whole wheat, regular, or gluten-free)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli florets 3 minutes before pasta is done.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Do not burn.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and broccoli.
- Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with garlic oil. Toss to combine.
- Stir in lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, toss once more, and serve warm.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Mix in spinach or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.
- Stir in ricotta or Greek yogurt for a creamier version.
- Use vegan Parmesan or omit cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if lemon juice is unavailable.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
