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Healthy Broccoli Pasta: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Your Dinner Table

This Whole Wheat Broccoli Pasta is a nutritious and flavorful dish featuring al dente whole wheat pasta, fresh broccoli, and a light Parmesan sauce. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with additional proteins or vegetables for a heartier meal. Enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner in just 25 minutes!

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (spaghetti or penne)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt.
  2. Add the whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  3. Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
  4. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside without rinsing.
  5. In the same boiling water, add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
  6. Transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. After a minute, drain and set aside.
  7. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. If desired, add red pepper flakes and stir for another 30 seconds.
  9. Add the blanched broccoli and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine.
  10. Pour in the reserved pasta water or vegetable broth, stirring well to create a light sauce.
  11. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) over the mixture, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  12. Squeeze in lemon juice and toss everything together.
  13. Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates, adding more cheese if desired.
  14. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.
  15. Enjoy your healthy broccoli pasta warm.

Notes

  • Der Teig darf während der Ruhezeit nicht bewegt werden.
  • Für ein intensiveres Knoblaucharoma können mehr Zehen verwendet werden.
  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes