Healthy Pasta

Healthy Pasta is an easy 30 minute vegetable pasta skillet recipe with pesto, tomato, broccoli and Parmesan cheese. Follow simple video instructions and make tasty dinner even if you dont know how to cook.

Healthy Pasta
Healthy Pasta

Healthy Pasta is an easy 30 minute vegetable pasta skillet recipe with pesto, tomato, broccoli and Parmesan cheese. Follow simple video instructions and make tasty dinner even if you dont know how to cook.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 6
  • Carbohydrate 13.9040909522017 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 1.82243306363399 g
  • Fiber 4.87660912651614 g
  • Protein 5.14217050171604 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.234606869962267 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (204g)
  • Sodium 114.826778590639 mg
  • Sugar 9.02748182568561 g
  • Trans Fat 0.509008342595937 g
  • Calories 79 calories

Step-by-step

  • Cook pasta as per package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, draining the rest. Set aside.
  • While pasta is cooking, get all ingredients ready. Preheat large deep skillet or a dutch oven on medium heat, add olive oil and garlic.
  • Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
  • Add 1 tbsp pesto, tomatoes and stir. Cook for 1 - 2 minutes and stir again. Cook another 1 - 2 minutes.
  • Move to one side of the skillet and make sure the empty side of is positioned directly over heat.
  • Add 1 tbsp pesto and broccoli, stir and cook for 4 minutes, stirring once.
  • Remove skillet from heat and add remaining 1/4 cup pesto, sun dried tomatoes, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, pasta and pasta water.
  • Stir gently and let flavours marinate for a few minutes. Do not cover because broccoli will become a mushy mess.
  • I also like to add half Parmesan cheese in this step and the other half right before serving.
  • Serve hot.
Healthy Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Meal

A Busy Mom's Guide to Healthy and Delicious Pasta

Let's be honest, moms are superheroes. We juggle work, kids, school runs, and everything in between. Finding time to cook a healthy, delicious meal can feel like an impossible task. But what if I told you there's a recipe that’s quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying? This Healthy Pasta recipe is my go-to when I need a weeknight dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

I’m all about simple recipes that don't sacrifice flavor. This pasta dish is packed with fresh vegetables like broccoli and juicy tomatoes, giving it a vibrant color and a delicious taste. The pesto adds a rich, savory element, and the Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing touch. The best part? It's on the table in under 30 minutes – perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Forget complicated recipes and endless chopping; this one is designed to make your life easier without compromising on taste. It’s become a staple in our house, and I'm confident it'll become a favorite in yours too. This recipe is incredibly versatile – feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would all work beautifully.

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I keep it mild for the kids. One thing’s for sure: the whole family loves it. It's a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables without the fuss. I often serve it alongside a simple side salad for a complete and balanced meal. The leftovers are also fantastic for lunch the next day, making it an even more efficient meal prep option.

This recipe is more than just a pasta dish; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques. It's a celebration of fresh flavors and a reminder that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and nutritious meal, reach for this recipe. You won't be disappointed!

Beyond the Recipe:

This recipe has become a springboard for culinary exploration in our family. We've experimented with different types of pasta, from whole wheat to gluten-free options. We've also added various herbs and spices to personalize the flavors. Getting the kids involved in the cooking process has been incredibly rewarding. They love helping to chop vegetables and stir the ingredients, and it's a wonderful way to teach them about healthy eating habits.

Tips for Success:

  • Fresh is Best: Using fresh ingredients truly elevates the flavor of this dish. The vibrant taste of fresh tomatoes and broccoli makes a significant difference.
  • Don't Overcook the Broccoli: Follow the cooking instructions carefully to ensure the broccoli remains tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and unpleasant.
  • Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.
  • Make it a Family Affair: Involve your kids in the cooking process to make it a fun and educational experience.
  • Leftovers are a Bonus: This recipe makes excellent leftovers, perfect for a quick and easy lunch the next day.

This Healthy Pasta recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy food doesn't have to be complicated. It's a quick, easy, and versatile recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights and beyond. Give it a try, and I'm sure it will become a regular fixture in your family's meal rotation. Happy cooking!