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In the realm of easy, healthy meals, few dishes can match the appeal of Vibrant Green Delight: Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta. This dish brings together the best of both worlds—colorful aesthetics and delightful flavors—while prioritizing nutrition and health. It's a meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also nourishes the body, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their diet with wholesome ingredients.

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Discover the vibrant flavors of our Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta! This delightful dish features whole wheat pasta tossed with tender broccoli, garlic, and a zesty lemon sauce. Simple to make in just 25 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight dinner. With optional Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist, you can customize it to your taste. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy a deliciously nutritious meal!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz whole wheat pasta (spaghetti or your choice)

2 cups broccoli florets

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

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

    Blanch the Broccoli: In the same pot, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender yet still bright green. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain the pasta and set aside.

      Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic. Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet, mixing well.

          Add Lemon Flavor: Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually, just enough to create a light sauce. Add the lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.

            Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

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