This easy healthy broccoli pasta is a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh broccoli, garlic, and whole grain pasta, it offers a delightful combination of flavors while being budget-friendly.
Ideal for those seeking healthy dinner recipes, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for fast dinners. It’s a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, providing yummy dinner ideas that are both satisfying and wholesome.
Quick Broccoli Pasta for a Healthy Dinner

This broccoli pasta features al dente whole grain pasta tossed with sautéed broccoli and garlic, creating a light yet filling dish. The recipe serves 4 and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for easy meals or cheap and healthy meals.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole grain pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh lemon juice for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Broccoli: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the broccoli. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g