Introduction

This really quick broccoli pasta is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With tender broccoli florets, a bright lemony sauce, and plenty of cheese, it comes together in no time and tastes like a treat.

Really Quick Broccoli Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

350g (12 oz) dried short pasta (small shells recommended)
2 large broccoli heads
1 cup shredded cheese (or more, to taste)
2 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice (or more, to taste)
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp mixed dried herbs (or fresh herbs)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (add more for extra heat)
1 tsp sugar
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Additional Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, chop the broccoli into small florets.
Step 3: Add the broccoli to the boiling pasta water about 1 to 2 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked to blanch it until tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan, minced garlic, mixed herbs, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper in a jar with a lid to create the sauce.
Step 5: Just before draining, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli and return them to the pot over the turned-off stove.
Step 6: Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the sauce jar, close the lid, and shake well to combine.
Step 7: Pour the sauce over the pasta and broccoli in the pot, then add the shredded cheese.
Step 8: Stir vigorously to combine, adding more reserved pasta water if needed for a silky consistency. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 9: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley if available for a brighter flavor.
Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
Substitute the short pasta with penne, fusilli, or farfalle if preferred.
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce as needed. The broccoli will soften further upon reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it to the pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking just like fresh broccoli.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Shredded mozzarella or a mild white cheddar can be used, but Parmesan is recommended for its sharp, nutty flavor that complements the lemon and herbs well.

Really Quick Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 60 reviews

This Really Quick Broccoli Pasta recipe is a simple, vibrant, and comforting dish that combines tender pasta with fresh broccoli and a zesty, cheesy lemon sauce. Perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner, it features a harmonious blend of garlic, herbs, and a kick of red pepper flakes, all tossed together with olive oil and parmesan for a creamy finish. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe delivers fresh flavors and satisfying textures using just one pot and a quick sauce shake in a jar.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Vegetables

350g / 12 oz dried short pasta (small shells recommended)
2 large broccoli heads, chopped into small florets

Sauce

1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar, or more to taste)
2 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice (or more to taste)
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp mixed dried herbs (or fresh herbs)
1/2 tsp+ red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
1 tsp sugar
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Garnish

Additional parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 teaspoons of salt. Add the dried pasta and cook according to the package instructions for al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta type.
Chop Broccoli: While the pasta is boiling, prepare the broccoli by chopping the heads into small, bite-sized florets to ensure even and quick cooking.
Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water about 1 to 2 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked. This will blanch the broccoli until just tender while keeping it bright green and crisp.
Prepare Sauce Ingredients: While the broccoli and pasta finish cooking, combine the sauce ingredients including shredded cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, grated parmesan, minced garlic, mixed herbs, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper in a lidded jar.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta and broccoli, scoop out 1 cup of the starchy cooking water and set aside. Drain the rest of the water and return the pasta and broccoli to the same pot on the turned-off stove.
Mix Sauce with Pasta Water: Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the sauce jar. Secure the lid and shake vigorously to combine and emulsify the sauce ingredients with the water, creating a creamy texture.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the sauce mixture into the pot with the pasta and broccoli. Add the 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir vigorously to coat everything evenly.
Adjust and Serve: Stir the pasta and sauce thoroughly, adding more reserved pasta water if necessary to reach the desired sauce consistency. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately, garnished generously with additional parmesan cheese.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor.
Small pasta shapes like shells or elbows help to hold the sauce better.
Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance for mild or spicy pasta.
Reserve pasta water is essential to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
For a vegetarian option, ensure the cheese is free from animal rennet.
This recipe can be customized by adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for added protein.

Keywords: quick broccoli pasta, easy pasta recipe, lemon broccoli pasta, vegetarian pasta, one pot pasta, healthy weeknight dinner