Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

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This One Pot Garlic Butter Pasta proves that clean eating can be completely effortless and absolutely delicious. Everything cooks in one pot in 20 minutes, and with a few smart swaps, you get all the creamy, garlicky, comforting pasta goodness you crave with wholesome, real ingredients. This is the healthy weeknight dinner that never feels like a diet meal.

Why This Fits Your Healthy Lifestyle

• Whole wheat or high-protein pasta options available
• Garlic provides powerful immune-supporting allicin compounds
• Real Parmesan adds protein and calcium — not processed cheese
• Broth-based cooking instead of cream keeps it lighter
• Easy to bulk up with extra vegetables for more fiber and nutrients

Ingredients

• 12 oz whole wheat spaghetti or protein-enriched pasta
• 3 tbsp good quality butter or olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Fresh parsley and lemon zest to finish

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Instructions

1. Heat butter in a large pot. Sauté garlic with red pepper flakes 1–2 minutes.
2. Add broth and water. Bring to a boil.
3. Add pasta. Cook, stirring frequently, until al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed — 10–12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat. Add Parmesan and lemon zest. Toss until creamy and glossy.
5. Season and serve immediately with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Healthy Tips

• Whole wheat pasta has 3x the fiber of regular pasta and keeps you fuller longer
• Use low-sodium broth to control salt intake
• Add a large handful of spinach in the last minute of cooking — it wilts perfectly
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished pasta for brightness and vitamin C
• Add white beans for extra plant-based protein

Serving Suggestions

• Stir in a big handful of baby spinach or arugula just before serving
• Top with grilled chicken or baked salmon for a complete protein-rich meal
• Serve with a tomato and cucumber salad for a light complete dinner
• Add white beans and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-style variation
• Pack leftovers (with a splash of water) for a healthy office lunch

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