Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz short pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Zest and juice of 1/2 medium lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, setting aside the broccoli preparation.
- Step 2: During the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to cook until tender-crisp. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli mixture.
- Step 3: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Step 4: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water, the lemon juice, and the lemon zest. Toss continuously for 1-2 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and creates a light coating sauce.
- Step 5: Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and season generously with salt and black pepper to taste before serving immediately.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, understanding that the pasta will continue to absorb the light lemon sauce as it chills.
- To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of water or vegetable broth to revive the sauce and prevent the pasta from becoming gummy.
- For a crunchier texture and richer flavor, serve individual portions topped with toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs.
- Chef's Tip: Pay close attention when sautéeing the garlic; cooking it for just 60 seconds until fragrant is crucial, as burned garlic will instantly turn the light lemon sauce bitter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American