There’s something so comforting about a warm, home-cooked pasta dish that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and brings everyone to the table. This Quick & Healthy Broccoli Pasta is one of those recipes — simple, wholesome, and full of fresh flavors. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels cozy yet light, making it easy to whip up after a busy day. Plus, it uses pantry staples and fresh broccoli, so you can enjoy a nutritious dinner without fuss or stress.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something wholesome and satisfying, this pasta hits all the right notes. Let’s get cooking!
| Category | Dinner, Pasta |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories | ~350 calories per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz (340 g) whole wheat or regular pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9–11 minutes). About 3 minutes before pasta is done, add the broccoli florets directly to the boiling water with the pasta to steam them tender.
- Reserve pasta water: Before draining, scoop out about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and broccoli together.
- Sauté the garlic: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant — be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Combine pasta and broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with garlic. Toss well to coat everything in the olive oil and garlic.
- Add Parmesan and lemon: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and squeeze the lemon juice in. Slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring to create a light, silky sauce that clings to every bite.
- Season and serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on the side.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- For perfectly cooked broccoli, adding it to the pasta water just before the pasta finishes cooking keeps it tender-crisp and bright green.
- If your sauce feels dry, add a splash more pasta water to loosen it up.
- To store leftovers, keep the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flakes—or leave them out completely for a kid-friendly version.
Recipe Variations
- Add protein: Toss in cooked grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Lighter cheese: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of feta for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread for a full, satisfying dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with toasted pine nuts or fresh basil leaves.
Conclusion
This Quick & Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a beautiful reminder that wholesome, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. Cozy up with a bowl of this vibrant dish fresh from your kitchen, and enjoy the simple joy of sharing good food with the people you love. Happy cooking!