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Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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3.8 from 5 reviews

This Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta recipe is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender broccoli florets sautéed with garlic and chili flakes, then combined with perfectly cooked penne pasta and topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, this dish is both flavorful and wholesome. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a light yet satisfying Italian-inspired dinner.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 large broccoli head, trimmed into small pieces
  • 3 minced garlic cloves

Pantry

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 12 ounces penne pasta

Dairy

  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 11 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
  2. Sauté Broccoli and Garlic: While the pasta cooks, 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 but not browned. Add the trimmed broccoli pieces and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until tender yet crisp. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and garlic. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
  4. Add Cheese and Finish: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and evenly coats the pasta and broccoli. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Serve: Divide the pasta evenly among four plates and serve immediately while warm for a light, healthy, and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, omit the parmesan cheese or replace with a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can enhance brightness and flavor.
  • You can substitute penne with any other pasta shape such as fusilli or rigatoni.
  • Be careful not to overcook broccoli; it should remain slightly crisp for best texture.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper amount slightly.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/light-and-healthy-broccoli-pasta-recipe/