Description
This creamy and flavorful broccoli pasta is a comforting and easy weeknight meal. With a delicious blend of whole wheat pasta, fresh broccoli, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small yellow onion, 1/4-inch diced
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional; reduce to 1/8 teaspoon if sensitive to spice)
– 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus additional as needed
– 1 1/2 cups nonfat milk (or milk of choice)
– 8 ounces dry whole wheat pasta (such as ziti, rotini, rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
– 1 medium head broccoli, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chicken broth, milk, pasta, and broccoli. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and broccoli is tender, about 12-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley or basil. Serve hot, topped with additional Parmesan and herbs.
Notes
– For added protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
– Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 372
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 31mg