Zesty Lemony Broccoli Pasta Sunshine on a Plate
Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta Sunshine on a Plate!
Ever crave something bright and flavourful? Honestly, sometimes I do. This Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta is just the ticket! It’s a simple yet satisfying meal with vibrant, zesty flavours.
This dish will make your taste buds sing.
A Taste of Italy with a Twist
This delicious Broccoli Pasta Recipe is inspired by classic Italian Vegetarian Pasta Dishes . But, it's got a lovely lemon twist.
Its origin comes from the need for a quick, easy and healthy weeknight meals. Ready in just 25 minutes, it serves 4.
Perfect for a family dinner or a lunch prep.
Why You'll Love This Lemony Pasta Recipe
This Vegetarian Pasta is more than just quick. It’s packed with goodness! Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse. It's full of vitamins and fiber.
Plus, the lemon adds a touch of sunshine. It brightens the flavours. Serve it on a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch.
What makes it special? It's incredibly versatile. You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, if you fancy it.
Let's Get Cooking!
Fancy trying this Quick Broccoli Pasta Dinner ? In the next section, we'll dive into what you will need to create this fantastic Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta dish.
Ingredients & Equipment for Brilliant Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Right then, let's chat about what you'll need for this Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. This is one of those Vegetarian Pasta Dishes that's a real winner.
Plus, it uses stuff most of us have kicking about.
Main Ingredients: Fresh is Best!
- Pasta: 1 pound (454g) . Penne or fusilli works brilliantly. I once tried it with spaghetti; a proper disaster. It all clumped together.
- Broccoli: 1 large head cut into florets. Aim for about 500g (1.1 lbs) . Look for vibrant green, tightly closed florets. Avoid anything yellowing or looking tired.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons . Extra virgin, if you're feeling fancy.
- Garlic: 3 cloves , minced. Fresh garlic is the ONLY way, like getting your tea from Yorkshire Tea.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). If you like a bit of heat, of course.
- Vegetable Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Chicken broth is fine too.
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (60ml) from about 2 lemons . Freshly squeezed, mind you!
- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon . Adds that extra zing!
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (60ml) , grated. Proper Parmesan, none of that pre-grated dust.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!
Seasoning Secrets: Elevate the Flavor!
The combo of lemon, garlic, and a touch of chili is chef's kiss . For that yummy flavour with your Broccoli Pasta , play around with dried oregano or basil for more of an Italian vibe.
Can't find red pepper flakes? A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick.
Essential Kit: Keep it Simple!
You'll need:
- A large pot for the pasta
- A large skillet or frying pan.
- A colander for draining.
- A zester for the lemon.
- A lemon juicer .
No lemon juicer? Just squeeze it hard, honestly! Quick broccoli pasta dinner doesn’t need to be complicated. If you're after an Easy lemon garlic pasta , this is the one.
This recipe can even be done in one pot for a One-pot broccoli pasta , but then the pasta water gets pretty green.
Right, that's the gear sorted. Next, the magic happens! I reckon this Lemony pasta recipe will become a family favourite.
Don't forget that delicious Lemon broccoli pasta with parmesan that makes it divine.
Cooking Method: Lemony Broccoli Pasta, Sorted!
Right, let's talk Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta . Honestly, it's one of those dishes that makes you feel like you've got your life together, even if you're still wearing your pajamas at lunchtime.
This Broccoli Pasta is a lifesaver.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First, mise en place , which is just a fancy way of saying "get your stuff ready". Chop that broccoli into florets.
Mince that garlic like you mean it. Grate some Parmesan. Zest a lemon and juice it. Seriously, fresh lemon is key for this Lemony pasta recipe .
It's a game changer. It also makes the best Broccoli Pasta Recipe.
Time saving tip: Get the water boiling for the pasta before you even start chopping. Multi tasking, innit?
Safety reminder: Be careful with that knife, yeah? We don't need any accidents.
step-by-step: Easy Does It
- Get the pasta on. Boil it until it's al dente . That's about 8- 10 minutes . Don't forget to salt the water like the sea.
- Steam the broccoli. You want it bright green and a little bit tender. Not mushy, mind.
- Sauté the garlic. In a pan with olive oil, cook the garlic until fragrant. That's about 30 seconds . Don't let it burn!
- Add lemon and broth. Pour in the lemon juice and veggie broth. Simmer for a couple of minutes .
- Combine everything. Toss in the pasta and broccoli. Add the Parmesan. Stir in a knob of butter.
Pro Tips: Nailing It
Want to elevate your Quick broccoli pasta dinner ? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of a kick! It's like a little hug for your taste buds.
And if you're feeling fancy, a squeeze of lemon at the end really wakes things up.
Common mistake: Overcooking the broccoli. No one likes mushy veg. Aim for that slight bite.
Craving Vegetarian Pasta Dishes ? This is it!
And, If you're into meal prep, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and toss it with the pasta and broccoli when you're ready to eat.
Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Recipe Notes: Making Your Lemony Broccoli Pasta Amazing!
Right then, you're ready to whip up this Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta . Before you get cracking, let's chat about a few tips to make it extra special.
Honestly, it's all about the small things, innit?
Serving Up Sunshine: Plating Like a Pro
Forget boring bowls! Presentation is key, especially when we're talking about this vibrant dish. This vegetarian pasta screams 'spring'. For plating, twirl the broccoli pasta on a plate.
Don't be shy with extra Parmesan. A sprinkle of fresh parsley? Absolutely! Serving it with crusty bread? Bang on for soaking up that amazing sauce! A simple green salad would be a proper treat too.
Storing Like a Legend: Keeping It Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries! This easy lemon garlic pasta stores like a champ. Pop it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating? Easy peasy. Microwave it or gently heat it in a pan. Add a splash of water to stop it drying out.
Freezing isn't ideal, as the broccoli can get a bit soggy.
Remixing the Classics: Variations Galore
Fancy a change? You got it! For a vegetarian pasta dishes , this lemon broccoli pasta with parmesan can be the base for many delicious meals.
Need a gluten-free option? Easy. Just swap the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. And for the protein lovers, why not toss in some grilled chicken or prawns? It is pasta primavera with lemon and endless possibilities!
Nutrition Nuggets: Feel Good Food
Let's break it down. Each serving of this quick broccoli pasta dinner packs roughly 450 calories. It has 18g of protein, 15g of fat and 65g of carbs.
Broccoli is packed with vitamins and fibre, so you know you are eating something good and healthy. Plus the lemon gives you a Vitamin C boost.
What's not to love in this Broccoli Pasta Recipe ?
Honestly, this Lemony pasta recipe is a winner. Have a go yourself, and let us know what you think. Honestly, you can add your own twist.
Don't be scared to experiment! Happy cooking, my loves!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare elements of the Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta in advance. Cook the pasta and broccoli separately, then store them in the fridge. Reheat the broccoli gently and toss everything together with the freshly made lemon sauce just before serving.
Think of it like prepping your Sunday roast, doing bits in advance helps speed up the process.
How do I store leftover Lemony Broccoli Pasta? Will it keep well?
Store leftover Lemony Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so it might be a little drier when reheated. A splash of water or broth when reheating can revive it nicely, bit like a cuppa tea for a flagging soul.
What can I add to Lemony Broccoli Pasta to make it more filling?
Want to beef up your Lemony Broccoli Pasta? Adding some protein is a great shout! Grilled chicken, prawns (shrimp to our American friends), or even some crispy bacon bits would work wonders. You could also toss in some chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian boost it will certainly give you a good feed!
I'm not a fan of broccoli. Can I substitute it in the Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta?
Absolutely! If broccoli isn't your cup of tea, try substituting it with asparagus, green beans, or even some roasted Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender crisp. It's your kitchen, your rules, like choosing between tea and coffee in the morning!
Can I make Lemony Broccoli Pasta vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can definitely adapt the recipe! Use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative, vegetable broth, and swap the butter for a plant based butter or just use a bit more olive oil. This way, everyone can enjoy a bit of the sunshine on a plate!
The sauce in my Recipe: Lemony Broccoli Pasta is too thick or too thin, what do I do?
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thin, simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce slightly. A little patience goes a long way, just like waiting for that perfect cup of tea to brew.
Zesty Lemony Broccoli Pasta Sunshine On A Plate
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 5g |
