Bright, flavorful, and heart-healthy, this Low Sodium Pasta with Broccoli recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and nutritious meal. Made with wholesome whole wheat pasta, tender sautéed broccoli, fragrant garlic, and a splash of zesty lemon juice, this dish delivers big flavor without relying on added salt. A hint of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, while a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional) and chopped parsley rounds out the dish beautifully. Ready in just 25 minutes and packed with fiber and nutrients, this recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a flavorful low-sodium option that doesn't sacrifice taste. Serve it as a satisfying weeknight dinner or a simple yet elegant side dish.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the whole wheat pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente according to package instructions.
While the pasta is cooking, in a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still bright green.
Add the minced garlic to the broccoli skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the broccoli and garlic in the skillet. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
Stir in the lemon juice, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together over medium heat until well combined and heated through.
Remove from heat and taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Remember, this is a low sodium dish, so avoid adding extra salt.
Serve the pasta immediately, topped with optional grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for garnish.
Calories |
1004 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 60.3 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.6 g | 88% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 47 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 994 mg | 43% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 82.5 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.1 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.3 g | ||
| Protein | 45.6 g | 91% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 850 mg | 65% | |
| Iron | 6.4 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 567 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.