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Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta: Your New Go-To Weeknight Wonder

Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta: Your New Go-To Weeknight Wonder
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This broccoli pasta is light, flavorful, and full of nutrients. The broccoli is cooked and mashed into a creamy, garlicky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a quick, healthy meal that works for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Top with Parmesan for a satisfying finish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the broccoli and sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

  • 1 large broccoli head, cut into small florets

  • Salt, to taste

  • Black pepper, to taste

For the pasta:

  • 12 oz shell pasta

For serving:

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Add the broccoli and cook 5 minutes, until tender.

  3. Transfer the broccoli to a bowl and reserve ½ cup of the cooking water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli Mash

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking briefly until fragrant.

  3. Add the cooked broccoli and reserved cooking water. Season with salt and pepper.

  4. Cook 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is soft enough to mash with a spoon.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

  1. In the same pot used for the broccoli, cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.

  2. Drain thoroughly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Broccoli Mash

  1. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the broccoli mash.

  2. Stir in Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.

  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Season and Serve

  1. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

  2. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior melt and flavor.

  • For extra creaminess, you can add a tablespoon of cream or Greek yogurt to the broccoli mash.

  • Toss in toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for added texture and flavor.

  • This pasta is best served fresh but can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/light-and-healthy-broccoli-pasta-your-new-go-to-weeknight-wonder/