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Creamy lemon broccoli pasta garnished with fresh herbs and lemon zest

Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta

A delightful pasta dish combining fresh broccoli, zesty lemon, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Broccoli
  • 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter for sautéing
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for flavor
  • 1 cup heavy cream for creaminess
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for richness
  • 1 whole lemon (zest and juice) for freshness
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Cooking Pasta and Broccoli
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  3. Drain and set aside.
Making the Creamy Sauce
  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to combine and coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Serving
  1. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture. Fresh lemon juice and zest will enhance the flavor, so do not skip them! For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can use different types of vegetables, like spinach or peas, if you prefer.