Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta—a deliciously wholesome dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Tender pasta tossed in a silky, garlicky sauce and combined with vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli creates a perfect harmony of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal packed with veggies or a creamy pasta fix that feels light yet satisfying, this recipe is your new kitchen hero.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich, Creamy Garlic Sauce: Made without heavy cream but still luxuriously smooth and flavorful.
Fresh & Nutritious Broccoli: Adds a satisfying crunch and a boost of vitamins to every bite.
Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
Versatile & Customizable: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite herbs to make it your own.
Perfect Balance: Comforting pasta meets fresh veggies for a guilt-free, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Creamy, dreamy, and made for indulgent moments. Here’s what you’ll need:
Whole wheat pasta: A healthier alternative to regular pasta, it adds fiber and nutrients.
Broccoli florets: These little green trees not only bring color but also a satisfying crunch and plenty of vitamins.
Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and helps sauté the garlic to perfection.
Garlic: The star of the show! Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a robust flavor.
Vegetable broth: This adds depth to the sauce, making it savory and satisfying.
Unsweetened almond milk: A creamy base that keeps the dish vegan while adding a subtle nutty flavor.
Nutritional yeast: A fantastic source of vitamins, it gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these add a nice kick.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb not only garnishes the dish but also adds freshness.
For those looking to boost the protein content, consider mixing in cooked chickpeas or white beans. If broccoli isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for other veggies like spinach or asparagus. The exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta is not just easy; it’s also a fun way to get your hands dirty in the kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the whole wheat pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve half a cup of that pasta water before draining. It’s liquid gold for your sauce!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. That garlic aroma? It’s the first sign that something delicious is on the way!
Step 3: Add the Broccoli
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir them around for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to turn bright green and tender but still crisp. This step not only adds color but also packs in those nutrients. Trust me, your body will thank you!
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the vegetable broth and almond milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Let it bubble for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy sauce is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce and broccoli. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. You want it creamy but not soupy!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This helps the sauce thicken a bit more. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Now, dig in and enjoy your Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta!
Tips for Success
Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be bright and slightly crisp.
For a creamier sauce, blend the almond milk with a bit of cashew cream.
Experiment with different veggies for variety—zucchini or bell peppers work great!
Make it ahead! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet can work too.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing.
Colander: For draining pasta. A slotted spoon can be a quick alternative.
Measuring cups: Essential for accuracy, but eyeballing works in a pinch!
Variations
Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas, white beans, or grilled chicken for extra protein.
Cheesy Flavor: Mix in some vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesier taste.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Different Veggies: Swap broccoli for asparagus, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color.
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta
Can I make Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the whole wheat pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on it!
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of almond milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. They’ll add flavor and nutrition to your Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just make a big batch and portion it out for the week. It reheats well and stays delicious!
What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?
If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can use grated vegan cheese or simply omit it. The dish will still be tasty without it!
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Creamy Garlic Broccoli Pasta embodies that spirit. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and a reminder that healthy eating can be deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table. Plus, the vibrant colors and rich aromas will have everyone asking for the recipe. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
A delicious and healthy creamy garlic broccoli pasta dish that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces whole wheat pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and tender.
Pour in the vegetable broth and almond milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chickpeas or white beans.
Swap out broccoli for other vegetables like spinach or asparagus for a different flavor profile.
