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A vibrant plate of broccoli pasta dinner featuring al dente pasta tossed with fresh broccoli florets and a light garlic sauce.

20-Minute Broccoli Pasta Dinner

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Discover a quick, nutritious, and delicious 20-Minute Broccoli Pasta Dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This healthy pasta recipe combines the crunch of fresh broccoli with flavorful Parmesan cheese, offering a satisfying and wholesome meal in just 20 minutes. Ideal for those seeking an easy, flavorful dinner without the hassle.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2-4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional but adds flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh lemon juice (for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Rinse and cut the broccoli into small florets. Mince the garlic.
  2. Add the pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions. During the last 2-3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes if using, and stir for another minute.
  4. Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat with garlic and oil. Season with salt, pepper, and squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Finish with Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For added flavor, sprinkle with additional Parmesan or herbs like basil or parsley.
  • If using gluten-free pasta, ensure it’s cooked al dente according to package instructions.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for spice level.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 380 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg