Penne and Broccoli Recipe: Easy, Healthy Dinner Ideas

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey featuring one of the simplest yet most satisfying dishes you can prepare: penne and broccoli. This recipe is a perfect balance of hearty pasta and fresh, vibrant vegetables, creating a meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, this dish comes together quickly with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences, making it a wonderful staple for any home cook.

What makes penne and broccoli truly special is its combination of textures and tastes—from the tender bite of al dente pasta to the slight crunch and earthiness of broccoli. Enhanced with savory garlic, a touch of olive oil, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, it’s comfort food elevated to a wholesome, vibrant level.

Ready to impress your family or guests with a nutritious meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This penne and broccoli recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you want something homemade without the fuss.

The combination of whole wheat or regular penne pasta and fresh broccoli provides a wonderful dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, ensuring you’re eating well without compromising taste.

Another reason this dish stands out is its versatility. It’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or proteins like grilled chicken or crispy pancetta.

Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan with a few simple swaps. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe offers a wholesome, crowd-pleasing option that feels both comforting and fresh.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
• 4 cups broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
2. During the last 3-4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets directly to the boiling water. This will blanch the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and tender-crisp.
3. Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the garlic-infused olive oil.
7. If the mixture seems dry, pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help create a light sauce that clings to the pasta and vegetables.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and forms a creamy coating.
9. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs if using. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.”

To boost the protein content, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu. You can also swap broccoli for other green vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or kale depending on the season and your preferences.

Try roasting the broccoli instead of blanching for a deeper, caramelized flavor. Simply toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes before combining with the pasta.

If you love a bit of zest, add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the lemon juice. For an extra nutty crunch, swap pine nuts for toasted walnuts or almonds.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This penne and broccoli dish is fantastic on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty garlic bread for a more complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrusy brightness of the lemon juice perfectly.

For a heartier dinner, serve alongside roasted chicken breasts or baked salmon. If you’re hosting a casual lunch, add a bowl of Minestrone soup or a Caprese salad from our collection to round out the meal.

Check out our Minestrone Soup recipe and Caprese Salad recipe for more inspiration!

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this penne and broccoli recipe is a must-have in your recipe repertoire. It combines wholesome ingredients with simple techniques to create a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.

The ease of preparation, along with the flexibility to customize to your taste, makes it perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a savory garlic-olive oil sauce enhanced by Parmesan cheese and lemon. This recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Give it a try tonight and savor the delicious simplicity of penne and broccoli!

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