The Art of Ultimate Healthy Italian Broccoli Pasta Perfection

Perfect Pasta Cooking Mastery

Master the technique of cooking whole wheat pasta to ideal al dente texture.

Broccoli Preparation Excellence

Learn the skill of cooking broccoli to maintain optimal nutrition and texture.

Garlic Oil Infusion Perfection

Perfect the method of creating flavorful garlic oil without burning.

Sauce Emulsification Technique

Master the art of using pasta water to create silky coating sauce.

Fresh Flavor Balance Strategy

Learn optimal timing for adding fresh herbs and lemon for maximum impact.

Healthy Italian Cooking Mastery Secrets for Perfect Broccoli Pasta Creation

Pasta Timing: Cook pasta to al dente as it will continue cooking when tossed with vegetables.

Broccoli Texture: Don't overcook broccoli - it should remain bright green and slightly crisp.

Pasta Water: Reserve starchy pasta water to help create silky sauce that coats pasta.

Fresh Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting properties.

Heat Control: Keep heat moderate when adding cheese to prevent it from becoming stringy.

Lemon Balance: Add lemon juice at end to preserve bright, fresh flavor.

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Lemon, and Fresh Parmesan

Name: Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Lemon, and Fresh Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Pasta Foundation:; 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta; 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water; 1 tablespoon olive oil for water; 12 cups water for boiling; For the Fresh Broccoli:; 2 large heads fresh broccoli, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; For the Garlic Base:; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 shallot, minced; For the Bright Lemon Element:; Juice of 2 large lemons; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons lemon juice, reserved; 1 teaspoon lemon zest, reserved; For the Cheese Component:; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1/4 cup Romano cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional); Extra cheese for serving; For the Fresh Herbs:; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano; 2 tablespoons fresh chives

The ultimate weeknight healthy pasta dish featuring vibrant fresh broccoli, al dente whole wheat pasta, and a light garlic-lemon sauce finished with Parmesan cheese. This nutritious comfort food masterpiece combines the earthy goodness of perfectly cooked broccoli with wholesome pasta and bright Mediterranean flavors, creating an unforgettable family-friendly experience that elevates simple ingredients to extraordinary heights perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or any time you crave the perfect balance of healthy vegetables, satisfying pasta, and fresh vibrant flavors.

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Cook Time

15 Minutes

Total Time

25 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Pasta Foundation:

12 oz whole wheat penne pasta

1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

1 tablespoon olive oil for water

12 cups water for boiling

For the Fresh Broccoli:

2 large heads fresh broccoli, cut into florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Base:

6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1 shallot, minced

For the Bright Lemon Element:

Juice of 2 large lemons

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons lemon juice, reserved

1 teaspoon lemon zest, reserved

For the Cheese Component:

1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

1/4 cup Romano cheese, grated

2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)

Extra cheese for serving

For the Fresh Herbs:

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

1 tablespoon fresh oregano

2 tablespoons fresh chives

For the Healthy Additions:

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

2 tablespoons capers (optional)

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

2 tablespoons hemp hearts (optional)

For the Flavor Boosters:

2 tablespoons white wine (optional)

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cooking Equipment:

Large pot for pasta

Large skillet

Colander

Tongs

For the Assembly:

Large serving bowl

Ladle

Cheese grater

Measuring cups

For the Garnish:

Extra lemon wedges

Fresh herb sprigs

Cracked black pepper

Sea salt flakes

Instructions

Bring large pot of salted water to rolling boil for pasta.

Add whole wheat penne and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining pasta.

Cut fresh broccoli into uniform bite-sized florets for even cooking.

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper.

Cook broccoli for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Remove broccoli from skillet and set aside on plate.

In same skillet, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.

Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.

Sauté minced shallot until translucent, about 2 minutes.

Add white wine if using and let reduce for 1 minute.

Return cooked broccoli to skillet and toss gently to combine.

Add drained pasta to skillet with broccoli and garlic.

Toss pasta with vegetables, adding pasta water as needed for moisture.

Remove skillet from heat and add fresh lemon juice and zest.

Add butter and toss until melted and coating pasta evenly.

Sprinkle in half the Parmesan cheese and toss to distribute.

Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Add fresh basil, parsley, and oregano, tossing gently.

Transfer to large serving bowl and top with remaining cheese.

Garnish with toasted pine nuts and sun-dried tomatoes if using.

Sprinkle with fresh chives and additional lemon zest.

Serve immediately while hot with extra cheese and lemon wedges.

Offer freshly cracked black pepper and sea salt at table.

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Lemon, and Fresh Parmesan

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Healthy Italian Broccoli Pasta Perfection

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta with Garlic, Lemon, and Fresh Parmesan

Ingredients

Instructions