Name: Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli: 7 Simple Steps to Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines the zest of lemon with the richness of garlic and the crunch of broccoli. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic elevate the simple ingredients into a delightful meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into how to make this incredible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Pasta with

There are countless reasons to adore this dish! First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. Second, the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic create a refreshing taste. Third, it’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to adapt it with various proteins or vegetables. Fourth, it’s vegetarian-friendly, fitting perfectly into a plant-based diet. Fifth, it can be made in just under 30 minutes, making it a quick meal solution. Lastly, it pairs beautifully with side dishes like salads or garlic bread, making it a complete meal. You’ll find it fits well into categories like Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta and Lemon Herb Pasta Recipe.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Pasta with

Gather these items:

8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Lemon Garlic Pasta with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2: In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. Boil until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
Step 3: Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water.
Step 4: Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.
Step 5: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 6: Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the pot. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, and toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as necessary.
Step 8: Divide the pasta among serving plates, topping each with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli: 7 Simple Steps to Delight - Lemon Garlic Pasta with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Pasta with

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with a side salad.
Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the garlic.
Use fresh parsley for garnish to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Garlic Pasta with

This dish is fantastic on its own, but it can also be paired with:

Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Grilled shrimp is a great option!
A side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
A fresh garden salad to complement the zesty flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Garlic Pasta with

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring back the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Garlic Pasta with

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Garlic Pasta with?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors. Use fresh garlic and quality olive oil to enhance the dish’s depth. Adjust the lemon juice to your taste for a perfect zing!

Can I make Lemon Garlic Pasta with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently and add fresh parsley right before serving for the best taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Garlic Pasta with?

To avoid soggy pasta, make sure to cook it al dente. Also, avoid burning the garlic by sautéing it on medium heat and stirring frequently.

Variations of Lemon Garlic Pasta with You Can Try

Feel free to get creative! Here are some variations:

For a protein boost, try adding Garlic Lemon Pasta with Shrimp.
Make it creamy by stirring in some heavy cream for a Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta.
Switch things up with Vegan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe by using plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
For a heartier option, add Lemon Garlic Pasta with Chicken for a complete meal.