Description
This Really Quick Broccoli Pasta is a simple, delicious, and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta with fresh broccoli, tangy lemon, and a blend of cheeses, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 350g / 12 oz dried short pasta (small shells recommended)
- 2 large broccoli heads
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheese (your choice, use more for extra cheesiness)
- 1/3 cup parmesan, finely grated
- More parmesan for garnish
Flavors and Seasonings
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (add more to taste)
- 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp mixed dried herbs (or fresh herbs)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (increase if you prefer spicier)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tsp of salt. Add the dried pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water if desired.
- Prepare Broccoli: While pasta cooks, cut the broccoli heads into small florets. You can also include the peeled stem sliced thinly for extra texture.
- Cook Broccoli: In the same pot or a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets along with a splash of water and cover to steam for about 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta back to the pot or pan with the broccoli. Stir in the shredded cheese, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, mixed herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Drizzle remaining 3 tbsp olive oil. Toss everything together over low heat until the cheese melts and ingredients are well combined. Adjust seasoning and lemon juice to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle extra parmesan on top for garnish. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the shredded cheese with mozzarella, cheddar, or any melting cheese of your choice.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of pasta water while combining the ingredients.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness according to preference.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be used instead of dried herbs for a fresher taste.
- This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be paired with a light side salad.
