Go Back
–+ servings
Lemon Broccoli Pasta

Zesty Lemon Broccoli Pasta in Just 25 Minutes

This Lemon Broccoli Pasta is a quick and easy dish packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Dried Pasta use penne or rotini for best results
For the Broccoli
  • 8-10 ounces Broccoli Florets fresh preferred, frozen can be used with adjusted cooking time
For the Sauce
  • 5 tablespoons Olive Oil extra virgin recommended
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced; garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) works in a pinch
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh enhances the flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest use a microplane to avoid bitterness from the white pith
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano swap for Italian seasoning if desired
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes omit for milder dish
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper to taste
For the Garnish
  • 2/3 cup Parmesan Cheese shredded; vegan alternative is nutritional yeast
  • Lemon Wedges and Fresh Parsley optional garnishes

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add the Broccoli: Chop broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. About 2-3 minutes before pasta is done, add chopped broccoli to the boiling water.
  3. Drain and Reserve Pasta Water: Reserve ¾ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: Return pot to medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds.
  5. Create the Sauce: Add lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, red pepper flakes, and reserved pasta water to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta and broccoli back to the pot. Toss gently with the sauce and add Parmesan cheese.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!