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Easy Lemon Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 14 reviews

This Easy Lemon Broccoli Pasta is a quick and fresh vegetarian dish combining al dente penne, tender broccoli, and a bright lemon-infused olive oil sauce, rounded out with garlic, nutritional yeast, and herbs for a burst of flavor in just 25 minutes.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 10 ounces dried penne pasta
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (from 1 large or 2 small crowns)

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions for al dente. When there are 30 seconds remaining on the pasta’s cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cook together until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is bright green, then drain both in a colander.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté, stirring constantly, until it becomes very fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Toss Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic oil. Stir well to evenly coat with olive oil and cook together for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
  4. Add Flavorings: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in lemon juice, nutritional yeast flakes, lemon zest, salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
  5. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the pasta for a fresh herbal finish.
  6. Serve: Divide the pasta onto plates and serve immediately, enjoying the light, zesty flavors.

Notes

  • If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water when tossing the pasta and broccoli in the skillet.
  • Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and is optional for those who avoid dairy.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhance the dish’s freshness and can be swapped according to what you have on hand.
  • Cook broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp to maintain texture and nutrition.

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/easy-lemon-broccoli-pasta-recipe/