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Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

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Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a quick, wholesome, and satisfying meal made with tender broccoli, garlic, and a light olive oil or lemon sauce. It’s a simple and nourishing dish perfect for busy weeknights or meatless meals.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3–4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  2. During the last 3–4 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. Cook until tender and bright green.
  3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute.
  4. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  5. Add the pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to combine.
  6. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.
  7. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

  • Use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available—just add directly to boiling pasta water.
  • Blend part of the broccoli with garlic and pasta water for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
  • Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a heartier dish.
  • Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options work well too.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of water or oil.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/easy-healthy-broccoli-pasta/