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A bowl of easy healthy broccoli pasta with vibrant green florets.

Classic Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

This classic recipe combines whole wheat pasta with fresh broccoli, garlic, and a light lemon-Parmesan sauce for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 ounces whole wheat spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape
  • 4 cups broccoli florets about 1 large head
  • 3 garlic, minced cloves
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a kick
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • lemon Zest and juice of 1 (optional, for brightness)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet or Dutch oven
  • colander

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add pasta and cook as directed.
  2. Add broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3-4 minutes to cook them tender-crisp.
  3. Before draining, reserve about ¼ cup of starchy pasta water.
  4. Drain the cooked pasta and broccoli well and set aside.
  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil.
  7. Pour in reserved pasta water, then stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  8. Toss everything until the pasta is coated and cheese forms a light sauce.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For an extra boost of flavor, toast some breadcrumbs in olive oil and sprinkle over the finished dish. If you don't have fresh lemon, a splash of white wine vinegar can offer a similar brightness. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.