How Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta Boosts Your Dinner

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also light and healthy? I’m excited to share my recipe for Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta! This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. With fresh ingredients and a burst of flavor, it’s one of my go-to easy pasta recipes that I know you’ll love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli, making it a great option for dinner ideas with veggies.
• Perfect for easy dinner for one healthy or for the whole family!
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or additional veggies.
• Deliciously creamy without the guilt, thanks to the fresh ingredients!

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following 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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this scrumptious creamy garlic pasta:

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant green.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the broccoli.
5. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce, then stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve immediately!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overcook the broccoli; you want it to retain some crunch for texture.
• If you like a bit more heat, feel free to add more crushed red pepper or even some red pepper flakes.
• For added protein, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or shrimp. This makes it a fantastic option for family dinner healthy!
• Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

How to Serve

This dish is best served warm, straight from the skillet. I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty whole grain bread for a complete meal. It’s a fantastic option for meals for one person healthy or for sharing with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking to meal prep, this easy pasta meal prep is a great choice! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and healthy!

For more delicious ideas, check out my Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Chinese Takeout or try my Roasted Chicken and Vegetables Air Fryer for a wholesome meal that’s just as easy to prepare!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and let’s make this delightful Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta tonight! You’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying it is. Happy cooking!