Save A vibrant pasta dish featuring tender angel hair tossed with roasted broccoli, sweet garlic, and a zesty lemon finish. Light yet satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fresh lunch.
This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful dish that feels both fresh and comforting. It's quickly become a family favorite in our household.
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Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 large head broccoli cut into small florets
- Garlic: 8 cloves peeled whole
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Lemon juice: Juice of 1 lemon
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh chopped optional
- Angel hair pasta: 340 g (12 oz)
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon optional
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup grated plus more for serving
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Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast vegetables:
- Toss broccoli florets and garlic cloves with olive oil salt and pepper. Spread on baking sheet.
- Cook roasting:
- Roast for 18 to 20 minutes tossing halfway until broccoli is tender lightly charred and garlic is soft and golden.
- Cook pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Mash garlic:
- Transfer roasted garlic to cutting board and mash with fork.
- Combine ingredients:
- In large skillet add mashed garlic roasted broccoli lemon zest and red pepper flakes. Add pasta and toss together.
- Add liquids and cheese:
- Pour in lemon juice and reserved pasta water if needed. Add Parmesan cheese and toss until creamy.
- Season:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt pepper or lemon juice.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save We love how this dish brings everyone together around the table especially on busy weeknights when a quick wholesome meal is needed.
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Notes
For a vegan version omit Parmesan or use plant-based alternatives. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Substitute broccolini or asparagus for broccoli for variation. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Baking sheet large pot colander large skillet zester microplane knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 350 Total Fat 10 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 12 g per serving
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This dish is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that comes together quickly. It’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I roast broccoli and garlic perfectly?
Spread broccoli florets and whole garlic cloves on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, tossing halfway until broccoli is tender and garlic soft and golden.
- → Can I substitute angel hair pasta with another kind?
Yes, thin spaghetti or capellini work well as alternatives and maintain a similar light texture when tossed with the ingredients.
- → What adds the lemon flavor to the dish?
Lemon zest provides aromatic brightness, while fresh lemon juice adds tang and lightness, perfectly enhancing the roasted flavors.
- → Is Parmesan necessary, or can it be omitted?
Parmesan adds a creamy, savory depth but can be omitted or replaced with a plant-based alternative for dietary preferences.
- → How can I add some heat to this dish?
Sprinkle red pepper flakes while combining ingredients to introduce a gentle spicy kick without overpowering the flavors.
- → What proteins pair well with this dish?
Grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent options to add protein and complement the bright, roasted flavors.
