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Healthy Pasta with Broccoli

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Whip up this vibrant, healthy pasta with tender-crisp broccoli, fragrant garlic, and a zing of lemon. A quick, nutritious meal featuring al dente whole wheat pasta.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225g) whole wheat pasta
  • 1 medium head (about 4 cups) fresh broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for pasta water)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water to cook until tender-crisp.
  2. Step 2: While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Step 3: Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and broccoli well and add them directly to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil.
  4. Step 4: Add the fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together vigorously to combine, ensuring the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the garlic-lemon sauce.
  5. Step 5: If the pasta appears dry, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce, tossing until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making for a delicious and quick lunch later in the week.
  • To gently revive any cooled pasta, warm it slowly in a pan on the stovetop with a small splash of water or vegetable broth to bring back its creamy texture and prevent dryness.
  • For an even heartier meal, consider serving this healthy pasta alongside some grilled chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts and fresh Parmesan cheese.
  • Remember that reserved pasta water is your best friend for this recipe; it's the magical ingredient that helps create a beautiful, light sauce that perfectly clings to every piece of pasta and broccoli.
  • Author: Isabella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx. 300g)
  • Calories: 390
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 5g

Find it online: https://coookitfast.one/healthy-pasta-with-broccoli/