Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a simple, comforting, and nourishing dish I love making when I need a quick and wholesome meal. It’s packed with tender broccoli, flavorful garlic, and a light olive oil or lemon-based sauce that brings everything together beautifully. This pasta is perfect for busy weeknights, meatless dinners, or when I just want something satisfying that doesn’t feel heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s light, fresh, and comes together in under 30 minutes using ingredients I usually already have. The broccoli adds a dose of veggies and fiber, while the pasta keeps it filling and comforting. It’s incredibly versatile—I can keep it simple or dress it up with cheese, nuts, or extra protein. Plus, it’s a great way to eat more greens without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)

• Fresh broccoli florets

• Olive oil

• Garlic, minced

• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• Salt and pepper

• Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

2. In the last 3–4 minutes of cooking, I add the broccoli florets to the same pot to boil with the pasta until bright green and tender.

3. While the pasta and broccoli cook, I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic until golden and fragrant.

4. I drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

5. I add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil, tossing everything together.

6. I add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, then season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

7. I serve it warm, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a kick.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 3–4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I blend part of the broccoli with garlic, lemon juice, and pasta water to create a creamy green sauce. I also like adding white beans, grilled chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein. Swapping in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works great too. When I want a richer version, I sprinkle in a little feta or goat cheese before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out. It also reheats well in the microwave—just stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I’ve used frozen broccoli—just add it directly to the boiling pasta water and cook until tender.

What kind of pasta is best?

I usually go with short pasta like penne or fusilli, but spaghetti works too. Whole wheat adds extra fiber.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, I skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The olive oil, garlic, and lemon still give it great flavor.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

I blend some of the broccoli with pasta water and garlic to create a smooth, creamy sauce without any dairy.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely. I often stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is one of my go-to recipes when I want something fast, flavorful, and feel-good. It’s packed with simple, fresh ingredients and is easy to make with whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m keeping it light or loading it up, this pasta always delivers on taste and comfort.

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