Healthy & Delicious Pasta with Broccolini Recipe

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s perfect for when you want something light, nutritious, and full of fresh flavors—Healthy & Delicious Pasta with Broccolini.

This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy vibrant, tender broccolini with a simple yet flavorful garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian dish or a base to add your favorite protein, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Let’s dive in!

What’s in This Healthy & Delicious Pasta with Broccolini?

This recipe highlights fresh broccolini, a slightly sweeter and more delicate cousin of traditional broccoli. Paired with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a simple dish that lets the ingredients shine.

The pasta absorbs all the garlicky, savory flavors, making each bite deliciously satisfying. For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful and healthy pasta dish:

8 ounces pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite type)
1 bunch broccolini (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Zest of 1 lemon (for brightness)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Healthy & Delicious Pasta with Broccolini

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccolini to the boiling water to blanch it. Drain the pasta and broccolini, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spices

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the drained pasta and broccolini to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Add the Cheese & Serve

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss until well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes

Serving

This recipe makes 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or meal prep for the week. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Calories

Here’s a rough estimate of the calories per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: About 350-400 calories per serving
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 50g

This pasta is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great choice for a healthy, well-balanced meal.

Tips and Tricks

Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber and nutrients.
Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
Make it creamy by stirring in a spoonful of ricotta or a splash of heavy cream.
Experiment with flavors by adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or toasted pine nuts.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Healthy & Delicious Pasta with Broccolini is a go-to meal for me because it’s so simple yet packed with fresh flavors.

The broccolini adds a slight sweetness, while the garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan bring out rich, savory notes. It’s a versatile dish that you can easily customize, and it never fails to satisfy!

Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it! I’d love to hear your favorite variations and any tweaks you make. Enjoy! 😊