Description
This Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender broccoli florets sautéed with garlic and crushed red pepper, tossed with al dente penne pasta and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, it delivers a flavorful yet light dish that's easy to prepare in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large broccoli head, trimmed into small pieces
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Dairy
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Sauté the broccoli and garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli pieces and sauté until tender and vibrant green, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine pasta and broccoli: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts slightly and coats the pasta uniformly.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among four plates and serve immediately for a delicious, light, and healthy meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too dry.
- For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Crushed red pepper can be adjusted based on your spice preference or omitted for a milder dish.
