A light, easy, and healthy broccoli pasta made with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan. Wholesome, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
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4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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2–3 tbsp olive oil
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan (or 2 tbsp nutritional yeast)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
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Reserved pasta water (about 1 cup)
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
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Add broccoli to the boiling pasta water during the last 3–4 minutes of cooking.
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Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and broccoli.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 1–2 minutes.
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(Optional) Blend 1 cup cooked broccoli with 1/4 cup pasta water and a drizzle of olive oil for a creamy sauce.
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Add pasta, broccoli, and sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and Parmesan. Toss well.
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Adjust with pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.