Angel hair pasta with roasted broccoli, garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan creates a fresh, flavorful Italian-inspired dish.
# What you'll need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets
02 - 8 cloves garlic, peeled (whole)
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - Zest of 1 lemon
05 - Juice of 1 lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Pasta
07 - 12 ounces angel hair pasta
→ Seasonings & Miscellaneous
08 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
11 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss broccoli florets and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet.
03 - Roast in the oven for 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until broccoli is tender and slightly charred and garlic is soft and golden.
04 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
05 - Transfer the roasted garlic cloves to a cutting board and mash them with a fork until smooth.
06 - In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the mashed garlic, roasted broccoli, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Add the cooked pasta and toss together.
07 - Pour in the lemon juice and add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture if needed. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and toss until creamy and well combined.
08 - Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
09 - Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
