Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225 g) of whole wheat or regular pasta
- 2 cups (150 g) of fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup (240 ml) of reduced-fat shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 cup (240 ml) of low-fat milk or plant-based alternative
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta as directed until al dente. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain the pasta and broccoli, set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the low-fat milk, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
- Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with additional cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this healthy broccoli pasta dish that combines flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you require a gluten-free version.
- For a vegan version, replace cheese with vegan cheese and use plant-based milk.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Healthy, Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 310 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg