One-Pot Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli is one of those simple powerhouse ingredients we always recommend keeping in your kitchen. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and nutrients that support energy, recovery, and healthy aging—and frozen broccoli makes it even more practical for busy days.

This One-Pan Lemon Broccoli Pasta is a perfect example of how we approach nutrition at YPB Training Studio: simple, balanced, and built for real life. It comes together in one pan, requires minimal cleanup, and can easily be customized based on what you already have at home. Add leftover chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or lean protein to support muscle maintenance and strength as you age.

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium shallot, minced (or ½ cup chopped onion)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces regular or whole-wheat short pasta (rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle)
• 1¾ cups water
• 1½ cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen broccoli florets, thawed
• ½ cup slivered salami (optional)
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add pasta, water, broth, lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Cover and bring to a boil.
3. Uncover, reduce the heat to medium-high, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in broccoli and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salami (if using), Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, and pepper as desired.

Why this works for active adults over 50:
✔ Broccoli provides fiber and nutrients that support overall health and digestion
✔ Adding protein helps maintain muscle strength and supports recovery
✔ One-pan meals make healthy eating easier and more sustainable
✔ Balanced meals help fuel an active lifestyle and support long-term independence

👉 Check out more Recipes & Nutrition Tips:
https://ypbtrainingstudio.com/category/nutrition