Name: Easy 20 Minute Lemon Broccoli Pasta Dinner
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces broccoli florets (or 1 head); 1/2 pound short pasta; 1/4 cup good olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and Pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more if you like it spicy!); 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Juice of half a lemon; Grated parmesan cheese for serving

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Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? This Easy 20 Minute Lemon Broccoli Pasta is the perfect solution! Packed with flavor, easy to make, and suitable for any occasion, this dish will become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of zesty lemon, garlic, and red pepper flakes creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
Quick prep time: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Perfect for meal prep: This pasta reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Broccoli florets: Adds a pop of color and nutrients to the dish. Can be substituted with broccoli head.

Short pasta: Provides a hearty base for the dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Good olive oil: Infuses the dish with a rich, fruity flavor.

Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick, adjust to your taste preference.

Lemon zest and juice: Brightens up the dish with a refreshing citrusy flavor.
Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy finish to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until slightly tender.

Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.

Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Helpful Tips:

Don’t overcook the broccoli, you want it to be slightly tender but still crisp.

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese will elevate the dish even more.

Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.

Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This Lemon Broccoli Pasta pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of crisp white wine.

Easy 20 Minute Lemon Broccoli Pasta Dinner

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, just thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the skillet.

Can I make this dish vegan? Simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta.

Conclusion:

Next time you’re in need of a quick and tasty dinner idea, give this Easy 20 Minute Lemon Broccoli Pasta a try! Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a winner for any night of the week. Enjoy and don’t forget to share your feedback!