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In the world of healthy eating, finding delicious and nutritious meals that are quick to prepare can be a challenge. Fortunately, this Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta recipe is here to simplify your meal planning while delivering a burst of flavor and essential nutrients. Packed with whole wheat pasta, vibrant broccoli, and fresh cherry tomatoes, this dish is not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes.

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Discover the delight of a wholesome meal with this easy healthy broccoli pasta recipe! Made with whole wheat pasta and packed with fresh broccoli, garlic, and cherry tomatoes, this dish is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. It's ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Top it off with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch. Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing twist. Your family will love it!

Ingredients
  

8 oz whole wheat pasta (spaghetti or penne)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

    Blanch the Broccoli: In the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Once cooked, drain both the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

      Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched broccoli and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and sauté for about 3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

          Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce, then stir everything to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss to coat.

            Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top for added freshness.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4