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In the bustling world of healthy cooking, finding dishes that are both nutritious and satisfying can sometimes feel like a challenge. However, our Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta recipe proves that it doesn’t have to be. This delightful pasta dish not only showcases the vibrant green goodness of broccoli but also offers a quick, delicious meal option perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through a straightforward process that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and wholesome dish.

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Savor a delicious twist on dinner with this Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta! Packed with whole grain goodness and bursting with flavor from fresh broccoli, garlic, and a hint of lemon, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it's ready in just 25 minutes. Customize it with Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option, and don’t forget the fresh basil on top. Try it for a wholesome, satisfying meal!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz whole grain pasta (spaghetti or penne)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Blanch the Broccoli: In the same pot, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Quickly drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

        Combine: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss to combine, and add a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.

          Season: Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

            Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your healthy and delicious broccoli pasta!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4