Best Vegan Broccoli Pasta Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Looking for a delicious, wholesome, and easy-to-make vegan meal? This best vegan broccoli pasta recipe is exactly what you need to satisfy your cravings while keeping things plant-based and nutritious.

Bursting with vibrant green broccoli, perfectly al dente pasta, and a savory garlic-lemon sauce, this dish is both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying to add more vegetables into your diet, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy broccoli in a whole new light.

Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a meal that’s hearty yet light. Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can tweak it to your liking or dietary needs.

This vegan broccoli pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Let’s dive into the recipe and get your kitchen smelling amazing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan broccoli pasta recipe is a standout for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just one pot for the pasta and a skillet for the sauce, ensuring minimal cleanup.

The combination of fresh broccoli and garlic-infused olive oil creates a wonderful depth of flavor that’s both simple and satisfying.

It’s packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins C and K, and plant-based protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal. The bright hint of lemon adds a subtle zing that balances the earthiness of the broccoli perfectly.

Plus, it’s adaptable — you can add your favorite vegan cheese, nuts, or spices to make it uniquely yours.

Finally, it’s an affordable dish that doesn’t sacrifice taste or quality, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

• 12 oz dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work great)
• 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor, optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional for crunch)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Zester or grater for lemon zest
• Tongs or pasta fork

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta and broccoli together in a colander. Set the reserved water aside for later.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the red pepper flakes if using, and stir to combine.
5. Lower the heat and add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Pour in the vegetable broth (or reserved pasta water), lemon zest, and lemon juice.
6. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and broccoli evenly in the garlic-lemon sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
7. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Turn off the heat and sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the pasta for a cheesy, umami flavor. Toss to combine.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley and toasted nuts if desired for extra texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest texture, stir in a splash of unsweetened plant-based cream or cashew cream at the end.”

• Swap the broccoli: Try using broccolini or asparagus for a different green vegetable twist.
• Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas or crispy tofu cubes for more protein.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Herb variations: Experiment with dill, oregano, or thyme instead of basil or parsley.
• Use gluten-free pasta: This recipe works perfectly with gluten-free or chickpea pasta for those with dietary restrictions.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan broccoli pasta is perfect as a main dish served warm, but it also pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or crusty bread for mopping up any leftover sauce.

For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted chickpeas or a bowl of vegan soup. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil or vegan Parmesan substitute on top before serving for added richness.

Want to keep it light? Serve it chilled the next day as a pasta salad with a splash of balsamic vinegar and extra fresh herbs.

Conclusion

This vegan broccoli pasta recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying meal. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights, while its fresh flavors and vibrant colors make it an impressive dish for guests.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply love vegetables, this recipe hits all the right notes.

With a perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and broccoli, plus the option to customize with your favorite add-ins, it’s a versatile dish that can evolve with your tastes. Don’t forget to check out other exciting recipes like the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes, Magic Dough Recipe, or the delightful Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for more culinary inspiration.

Give this vegan broccoli pasta a try and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection!

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