This Easy Healthy Broccoli Parmesan Orecchiette Pasta Recipe is a simple, nutritious dish featuring tender orecchiette, roasted broccoli, and savory Parmesan, all tossed in a light garlic-infused olive oil. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal.
With ingredients like orecchiette pasta, broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this Garlic Broccoli Pasta is a delightful option for those seeking healthy dinner recipes. Enjoy this Italian-style meal that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of Parmesan.
Overview of the Dish
The Easy Healthy Broccoli Parmesan Orecchiette Pasta Recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish features tender orecchiette pasta paired with roasted broccoli, creating a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
With a light garlic-infused olive oil coating, this pasta shines with the richness of Parmesan cheese. The addition of red pepper flakes offers a subtle kick, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Ingredients That Shine
To prepare this vibrant dish, you’ll need a handful of key ingredients. The star of the show is orecchiette pasta, known for its unique shape that holds sauces beautifully.
Fresh broccoli florets are roasted to perfection, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a delightful crunch. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese creates a savory backdrop, while lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness.
Preparation Steps
Making this Quick Broccoli Pasta is straightforward and can be accomplished in around 30 minutes. Start by cooking the orecchiette until al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite.
While the pasta cooks, roast the broccoli in the oven until tender and slightly crispy. This step is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Once both components are ready, they are tossed together with garlic oil and Parmesan, creating a harmonious blend.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Serve it hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for an appealing presentation.
Fresh lemon wedges on the side not only add a pop of color but also provide an opportunity for diners to customize their flavor experience with a squeeze of citrus.
Health Benefits
This Healthy Dinner Recipe is packed with nutrients, making it a great option for those seeking wholesome meals. Broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil provides healthy fats.
With a balance of carbohydrates from the pasta and protein from the cheese, this dish offers a satisfying and nourishing choice for vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.
For those who enjoy a heartier meal, adding grilled chicken or shrimp can elevate this dish further, making it suitable for various tastes and preferences.
Quick Broccoli Pasta Recipe
This pasta dish combines cooked orecchiette with roasted broccoli and a light garlic sauce, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta or shell pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette or shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Roast the Broccoli: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
- Prepare the Garlic Oil: In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine: Add the cooked orecchiette or shell pasta and roasted broccoli to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 50g