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 vibrant pasta became a go-to when I craved something flavorful but quick to prepare, loved by family and friends alike.
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Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 large head 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
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped (optional)
- Angel hair pasta: 340 g (12 oz)
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup plus more for serving
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Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- To 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare broccoli and garlic:
- Toss broccoli florets and whole garlic cloves with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet.
- Roast:
- Roast for 18 to 20 minutes, tossing halfway, until broccoli is tender and lightly charred and garlic is soft and golden.
- Cook pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook angel hair pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Mash garlic:
- Transfer roasted garlic to a cutting board and mash with a fork.
- Combine ingredients:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add mashed garlic, roasted broccoli, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Add cooked pasta and toss.
- Add liquids and cheese:
- Pour in lemon juice and reserved pasta water as needed. Add Parmesan and toss until creamy.
- Season:
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save This dish always brings the family together at the dinner table, sparking conversations and compliments.
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Notes
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, large pot, colander, large skillet, zester or microplane, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta) and milk (Parmesan). For gluten-free use gluten-free angel hair pasta. For dairy-free omit Parmesan or use a substitute.
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This recipe combines fresh ingredients for a deliciously balanced meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to please.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I roast the broccoli and garlic properly?
Spread broccoli florets and whole garlic cloves in one layer on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway until broccoli is tender and lightly charred, and garlic is soft.
- → Can I substitute another vegetable for broccoli?
Yes, broccolini or asparagus make excellent alternatives, offering similar texture and flavor when roasted.
- → What’s the best way to achieve a creamy sauce without cream?
Mashing the roasted garlic and combining it with lemon juice and reserved pasta water helps create a naturally creamy sauce, enhanced by the addition of Parmesan cheese.
- → How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative to maintain a rich, flavorful finish without dairy.
- → What herbs pair well with this pasta dish?
Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal note that complements the roasted ingredients and lemon flavor nicely.
