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 quickly became a favorite in our household thanks to its fresh flavors and ease of preparation.
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
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup grated plus more for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- 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 in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast vegetables:
- Roast for 18–20 minutes, tossing halfway, until broccoli is tender and lightly charred, and garlic is soft and golden.
- Cook pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- Mash garlic:
- Transfer roasted garlic to a cutting board and mash with a fork.
- Sauté mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add mashed garlic, roasted broccoli, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together.
- Add liquids and cheese:
- Pour in lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen, if needed. Add Parmesan cheese and toss again until well combined and creamy.
- Season:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this dish together, especially on busy weeknights.
Notes
For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp. You can substitute broccolini or asparagus for broccoli for variation.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, large pot, colander, large skillet, zester/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. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Save This dish balances freshness and comfort, making it a perfect go-to for any occasion.
Recipe Q&A
- → How should I roast the broccoli and garlic?
Toss broccoli florets and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 18-20 minutes until broccoli is tender and garlic softens to a golden hue.
- → Can I substitute the pasta type?
Angel hair pasta works best for its light texture but you can substitute with other thin pasta types like capellini or thin spaghetti for similar results.
- → What if I want a vegan option?
Omit Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep the dish creamy while maintaining the intended flavors.
- → How can I adjust the seasoning if needed?
After combining all ingredients, taste and add more salt, freshly ground pepper, or lemon juice to enhance the brightness and balance the creamy texture.
- → What are good protein additions for this dish?
Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp are excellent options to add protein without overpowering the fresh flavors of the roasted garlic and lemon broccoli.