Garlicky Lemon Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This garlicky lemon broccoli pasta is a bright and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring tender broccoli florets, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic, it’s a fresh twist on classic pasta dishes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s both simple and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound broccoli, cut into florets
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the broccoli florets along with a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
5. Step 5: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
6. Step 6: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything together until well coated.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra protein, add cooked chicken or white beans to the pasta.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
• Swap out the broccoli for asparagus or green beans for a different vegetable twist.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level or leave them out entirely if you prefer mild flavors.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

Garlicky Lemon Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 88 reviews

This Garlicky Lemon Broccoli Pasta is a bright and flavorful dish featuring tender broccoli florets sautéed with garlic and onions, tossed with pasta and a zesty lemon sauce. Enhanced with a touch of red pepper flakes for heat, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, it makes a quick and satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for any weeknight.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound broccoli, cut into florets
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
4. Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
5. Combine pasta and broccoli: Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually to help loosen and create a light sauce that coats the pasta and vegetables.
6. Add lemon and season: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well to combine all flavors.
7. Finish and serve: Toss everything together until evenly coated. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve the pasta hot for a refreshing, garlicky meal.

Notes

• Reserve pasta water to help emulsify the sauce and bring the dish together.
• For a spicier kick, increase or decrease red pepper flakes based on your preference.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Parmesan cheese and fresh basil add extra flavor but are optional to keep it lighter or vegan-friendly (omit cheese).
• Cooking broccoli covered helps it steam and soften quickly while preserving color and nutrients.

Keywords: broccoli pasta, lemon pasta, garlic pasta, vegetarian pasta, easy weeknight dinner, Italian pasta recipes, healthy pasta dish