Description
This Best Lemon Garlic Broccoli Pasta with Crunchy Breadcrumbs is a refreshing and flavorful Italian-inspired dish combining tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. Finished with crispy toasted breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and bright, savory flavors perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces pasta such as spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water, as needed
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli thoroughly.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil together with the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn golden and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, ensuring the garlic does not become bitter.
- Toss Pasta and Broccoli with Sauce: Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything well, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light, silky sauce.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, allowing the cheese to melt into the pasta gently.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top it generously with the crispy toasted breadcrumbs. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired for added richness.
Notes
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or white beans to the dish.
- Whole wheat pasta can be used for a heartier, fiber-rich alternative.
- Be careful not to brown the garlic too much, as it can develop a bitter taste.
- The toasted breadcrumbs can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to two days, ready to add crunch when needed.
