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Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

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Indulge in a delightful and nutritious meal with this Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta. This vibrant dish features fresh broccoli paired with hearty penne pasta, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its quick preparation time of just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of garlic and crushed red pepper adds a flavorful kick, while the freshly grated parmesan cheese provides that beloved cheesy goodness without the heaviness of traditional pasta recipes. Whether served solo or alongside grilled chicken, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large broccoli head
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 minced garlic cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
  4. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  6. Stir in the broccoli pieces and crushed red pepper; season with salt and black pepper.
  7. Cook until broccoli is tender yet vibrant green (about 5-7 minutes).
  8. Add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with broccoli.
  9. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  10. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

Nutrition