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.
I first served this recipe to friends and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared from the table.
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets
- Garlic: 8 cloves garlic, 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 freshly ground 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:
- 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.
- 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 everything together.
- Add lemon juice 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.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save This dish always brings my family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over a comforting meal.
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/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 pasta is a bright and flavorful way to enjoy veggies any night of the week.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → What’s the best way to roast the broccoli and garlic?
Toss broccoli florets and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly and roast at 425°F until tender and lightly browned, about 18-20 minutes.
- → How can I keep the pasta from clumping after cooking?
Reserve some pasta water before draining, then toss the pasta with the roasted vegetables and add a splash of the reserved water to keep it moist and cohesive.
- → Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?
Yes, for a vegan option or dairy-free preference, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative with a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Fresh parsley adds brightness and color, but basil or thyme can also provide a lovely aroma and flavor balance.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added on top or mixed in for an additional protein boost without overpowering the vibrant flavors.