If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s simple, healthy, and bursting with bright, zesty flavors, Lemon Garlic Broccoli & Penne Pasta is the perfect choice. This recipe beautifully balances the earthy, fresh taste of broccoli with the zing of lemon and the savory aroma of garlic.

Tossed with tender penne pasta and a touch of olive oil and Parmesan, it’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and refreshing. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and suitable for any occasion — whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or craving a cozy bowl of something nourishing.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s the perfect combination of health, comfort, and flavor. It’s one of those meals that tastes indulgent but is actually packed with nutrients.

The broccoli adds fiber and vitamins, the lemon keeps it light and lively, and the garlic ties everything together with that signature savory aroma that makes your kitchen smell amazing.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for weeknights.
• Light but Satisfying: Olive oil and lemon replace heavy sauces.
• Nutritious: Broccoli adds vitamins, fiber, and a vibrant crunch.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, everyday ingredients.
• Customizable: Can easily be adapted for different diets or preferences.

Preparation & Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~380 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course / Side Dish
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni)
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes (for a mild heat)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for extra protein)
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or almonds (for crunch)
• 2 tbsp butter (for a richer flavor)
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot.
4. Once cooked, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
3. Add lemon zest and juice, then stir to combine.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
2. Pour in the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
3. Toss everything together for 2–3 minutes until the pasta absorbs the flavors.
4. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy and well mixed.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more lemon for brightness or Parmesan for richness.
2. If you like it richer, stir in a small knob of butter before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm in individual bowls topped with extra Parmesan, fresh lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Pair with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted chicken for a full meal.
• For a light lunch, enjoy it chilled as a refreshing pasta salad.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice and zest: It makes a big difference in brightness and flavor.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Keep it vibrant green and slightly crisp for the best texture.
• Add pasta water gradually: It helps emulsify the sauce for a silky coating.
• Use good olive oil: The quality of your oil directly impacts the final flavor.
• Make it heartier: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Lemon Broccoli Pasta: Add ¼ cup of ricotta or cream cheese for a richer texture.
2. Vegan Lemon Garlic Pasta: Skip Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese instead.
3. Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil for a fiery kick.
4. Whole Grain Option: Substitute whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
5. One-Pot Version: Cook everything in one pan by adding a bit more water and letting the pasta absorb the liquid as it cooks.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the lemon and broccoli texture changing when thawed.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Colander for draining
• Zester or fine grater
• Lemon juicer (optional but helpful)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes! Just add it directly to the boiling pasta water in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Add a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Q3: What if I don’t have Parmesan?
A: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes. For a vegan option, use nutritional yeast.

Q4: Can I use another pasta shape?
A: Absolutely! Fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle all work beautifully with this sauce.

Q5: How can I make it more filling?
A: Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even white beans for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Broccoli & Penne Pasta is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. It’s fresh, light, and satisfying — the kind of meal that leaves you energized rather than overly full.

With its tangy lemon notes, savory garlic, and tender-crisp broccoli, every forkful delivers pure comfort and flavor. It’s a dish that fits any season, easy enough for a weekday dinner yet elegant enough to serve guests.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome main course or a vibrant side dish, this pasta delivers everything you could want: simplicity, nutrition, and soul-satisfying taste.