why make this recipe
Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that packs a nutritious punch. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a meal that is both satisfying and healthy. This recipe is great for busy weeknights, and it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners to whip up in no time!
how to make Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Toss in the drained pasta and broccoli, mixing well. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve warm.
how to serve Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Serve the Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta warm in bowls, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
tips to make Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta
- To save time, chop your broccoli florets while the pasta cooks.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make it more filling by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different shapes of pasta, like penne or fusilli. Additionally, you can swap out Parmesan for other cheeses, like feta or mozzarella, based on your preference.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it to the boiling water with the pasta and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
Q: Is this dish vegan?
A: To make it vegan, simply leave out the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
Q: Can I use whole wheat pasta?
A: Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds more fiber to the dish.
Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large pan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g pasta
- 500 g broccoli approx. 1 head
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
- While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add minced garlic and chili flakes and sauté for 1 minute.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water, then add the pasta and broccoli to the pan with the garlic and chili flakes.
- Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce, and stir in grated Parmesan.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.