Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Easy healthy broccoli pasta became a midweek favorite for me when I needed something fast that still felt nourishing and satisfying without being overly rich. One day I had only a bag of broccoli and some pasta left in the kitchen so I whipped up a quick garlic-parmesan sauce and tossed everything together. It turned out so fresh and creamy I ended up making it again the very next night.

What I love most is how light yet comforting this dish feels. The broccoli adds a burst of green and texture while the creamy sauce hugs every strand of pasta in the most gentle way. It’s my go-to when I want a dinner that’s quick simple and leaves me feeling good afterward.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Spaghetti or linguine – A classic choice that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Fresh broccoli – Adds color crunch and a healthy boost to the dish.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with warm bold flavor.
• Olive oil – Helps sauté the garlic and keeps things light.
• Parmesan cheese – Brings salty depth and creamy texture to the sauce.
• Milk – Creates a smooth lightened-up sauce that blends everything together.
• Pasta water – Helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling to the pasta.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning everything just right.
• Fresh parsley – For a burst of freshness and color at the end.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot – I use this to boil the pasta and broccoli together for less cleanup.
• Colander – Drains the pasta and veggies once they’re perfectly cooked.
• Large skillet – Perfect for building the sauce and tossing everything together.
• Grater – Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Tongs – For tossing the pasta and broccoli gently in the sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil then I add the pasta and cook it according to package directions. In the last 3 minutes I toss in the broccoli florets so they cook just until bright green and tender. I reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat then add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

I pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle simmer then stir in the grated parmesan cheese a bit at a time until it melts into a light creamy sauce. I season it with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

I add the drained pasta and broccoli straight into the skillet and toss everything together using tongs. If the sauce feels too thick I splash in some reserved pasta water until it’s smooth and silky.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

I plate the pasta while it’s hot then top it with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Tips

To save time I often buy pre-cut broccoli florets. You can also swap milk for unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. And if you want some added protein grilled chicken or chickpeas make great additions!

Ways to Serve

This pasta makes a full meal on its own but I love pairing it with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad. For a cozy lunch I reheat leftovers with a splash of extra milk and it’s just as creamy as day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli in easy healthy broccoli pasta?

Yes frozen broccoli works great just add it in the last few minutes of pasta cooking and drain together as usual.

How do I keep the sauce creamy and not dry?

Using reserved pasta water helps keep the sauce smooth and silky. Don’t skip this step!

Can I make easy healthy broccoli pasta dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk and substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this easy healthy broccoli pasta a try! It’s one of those simple recipes that always delivers without needing anything fancy. Let me know how you customize it or if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation!

Happy Cooking!

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