This Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring tender broccoli and garlic in a savory olive oil and Parmesan sauce, this recipe is packed with veggies and flavor, without the heaviness of cream or excess cheese. It’s light, satisfying, and comes together in under 40 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli pasta is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious and balanced meal. The tender broccoli, combined with garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan, creates a light yet savory sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables while keeping the dish light and healthy. Ideal for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that won’t leave you feeling heavy afterward. Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

1 large broccoli head, trimmed into small pieces
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 minced garlic cloves
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 ounces shell pasta (or pasta of your choice)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Once cooked, transfer the broccoli to a bowl and reserve ½ cup of the broccoli cooking water.

2. Prepare the Broccoli Mash

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cooked broccoli and reserved cooking water to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli softens and becomes mashable with a spoon.

3. Cook the Pasta

In the same pot with the broccoli water, add your choice of pasta. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly once cooked.

4. Combine Pasta with Broccoli Mash

Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with the broccoli mash. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir everything together until well combined. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-25 minutes
Total Time: 25-40 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to this dish.
Vegan Version: Use vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Spicy Twist: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Other Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for more variety and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet with a little olive oil or a splash of water to restore the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in place of fresh. Just be sure to cook it until tender, and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

Can I use whole wheat pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier alternative to regular pasta, adding more fiber and nutrients to the meal.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To give this dish a spicy kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper, or add a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes to the broccoli mash.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broccoli mash and cook the pasta in advance. When ready to serve, just heat the broccoli mash and toss it with the cooked pasta and Parmesan.

How can I make the sauce creamier without using heavy cream?

If you want a creamier texture without using heavy cream, you can add a little bit of milk or a dairy-free milk alternative, or even a spoonful of ricotta cheese for added creaminess.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or any hard cheese you prefer.

Is this dish gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.

How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

To check if the pasta is al dente, taste a piece of pasta. It should be firm to the bite, with a slight chew but not soft.

Can I freeze this dish?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the broccoli pasta (without the Parmesan) for up to 1 month. Reheat and add fresh cheese when serving.

How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

To make this dish lighter, use less olive oil and cheese, or opt for a lower-calorie Parmesan alternative. You can also serve it with a side of extra veggies instead of pasta.

Conclusion

Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is the perfect recipe for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Packed with nutritious vegetables and a savory Parmesan sauce, this dish is both light and filling, making it a great option for weeknight dinners. With minimal ingredients and prep time, you’ll have a delicious, veggie-packed meal on the table in no time!