Description
A fresh and flavorful pasta dish with tender broccoli for a light, wholesome, and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets.
Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup cooking water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in vegetable broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
Add pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen.
Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm, garnished with parsley.
Notes
Make it vegan by skipping Parmesan or replacing it with nutritional yeast.
Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.
Use whole wheat or legume pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Healthy Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Mediterranean
