🎉 Introduction
Some of the best meals come from the simplest ingredients. Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is proof of that—just pasta, broccoli, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, combined into a wholesome dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
This recipe is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. The broccoli provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while the garlic and olive oil infuse the pasta with rich Mediterranean flavors. A final sprinkle of Parmesan ties everything together with nutty, savory goodness.
It’s a dish that feels indulgent while still being healthy—a true balance between comfort food and nutrition.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for boiling pasta and broccoli)
- Colander (for draining)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)
🛒 Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics:
- 1 large head broccoli (cut into florets)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
Seasonings:
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Oil & Cheese:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package directions.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the same pot.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Oil
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let garlic burn).
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with garlic oil.
- Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and coating the pasta.
- Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on top if desired.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil.
- Freezing: Not recommended—broccoli can become mushy after thawing.
🥄 Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds on top.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or ricotta cheese.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just add it directly to the boiling water in the last few minutes.
2. What pasta shape works best?
Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work great for holding the sauce.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.
4. Do I have to use Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good substitutes.
5. Can I make this ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the broccoli and garlic in advance.
6. How do I keep the broccoli bright green?
Don’t overcook it—just 2–3 minutes in boiling water is enough.
7. Can I add lemon juice?
Yes! A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish beautifully.
8. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love the cheesy pasta, and it’s a great way to sneak in veggies.
9. Can I add herbs?
Fresh basil or parsley make a delicious garnish.
10. Is this a full meal on its own?
Yes, but you can add protein or serve with a salad for extra balance.
🏁 Conclusion
This Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is the definition of simple, wholesome comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, full of nourishing ingredients, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste. From busy weeknights to relaxed weekend lunches, this dish is one you’ll turn to again and again.
With its vibrant green broccoli, golden garlic oil, and generous Parmesan topping, every bite is as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta – Quick, Nutritious, and Delicious
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package directions.
- In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the same pot.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let garlic burn).
- Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with garlic oil.
- Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and coating the pasta.
- Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Notes
Yes, just add it directly to the boiling water in the last few minutes. 2. What pasta shape works best?
Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work great for holding the sauce. 3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta. 4. Do I have to use Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good substitutes. 5. Can I make this ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the broccoli and garlic in advance. 6. How do I keep the broccoli bright green?
Don’t overcook it—just 2–3 minutes in boiling water is enough. 7. Can I add lemon juice?
Yes! A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish beautifully. 8. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love the cheesy pasta, and it’s a great way to sneak in veggies. 9. Can I add herbs?
Fresh basil or parsley make a delicious garnish. 10. Is this a full meal on its own?
Yes, but you can add protein or serve with a salad for extra balance. 🏁 Conclusion This Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta is the definition of simple, wholesome comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, full of nourishing ingredients, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste. From busy weeknights to relaxed weekend lunches, this dish is one you’ll turn to again and again. With its vibrant green broccoli, golden garlic oil, and generous Parmesan topping, every bite is as satisfying as it is nutritious.
