Why make this recipe

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal. It’s packed with vitamins from the broccoli and offers a satisfying bite from the pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a simple meal prep option. Plus, it takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish! So, if you’re keen on enjoying a wholesome meal that is full of flavor and easy to make, this recipe is definitely worth a try.

How to make Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 large head of broccoli
• 3 garlic cloves
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1/4 tsp red pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cut the broccoli into florets and mince the garlic.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and continue to sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
5. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with broccoli and garlic. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water a bit at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

How to serve Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Serve Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta warm right after cooking. You can place it in bowls and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal.

How to store Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

If you have any leftovers, you can store Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back its original taste and moisture.

Tips to make Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

1. To save time, you can prep the broccoli and garlic ahead of time.
2. Adjust the amount of red pepper based on your spice preference.
3. If you like more sauce, you can add a bit more pasta water when tossing the pasta and broccoli.
4. You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Variation (if any)

You can easily customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. You can also swap the penne pasta for any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or fusilli. Additionally, try adding cherry tomatoes or spinach for more vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan.

3. What if I don’t have penne pasta?
No worries! You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, like fusilli, spaghetti, or even macaroni. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions.