Description
A light and healthy broccoli pasta recipe combining whole wheat or gluten-free pasta with tender broccoli florets sautéed in garlic-infused olive oil, finished with fresh lemon juice, Parmesan or nutritional yeast, and parsley for a flavorful and nutritious meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional for vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Boil Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, adding broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes to soften them.
- Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Drain Pasta and Broccoli: Drain the pasta and broccoli florets together, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Toss Pasta in Garlic Oil: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss thoroughly with the garlic oil to coat evenly.
- Add Lemon and Seasoning: Stir in fresh lemon juice, season with salt and black pepper to taste, and add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the mixture is too dry or clumpy.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle the pasta with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients or gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Red pepper flakes add a slight heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Parmesan adds richness; nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency without adding extra fat.
- Fresh parsley adds brightness and a fresh herbal note suitable for garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
