Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli and Asparagus Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti for this dish, but any pasta works! If you’re gluten-free, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. They hold the sauce nicely too.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds great texture and flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with green beans or peas. Frozen broccoli also works fine in a pinch!

Asparagus: Asparagus gives a wonderful crunch. If it’s out of season, use zucchini or even snap peas for a twist. Just make sure to cut them similar in size for even cooking.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work. Just use about 1 teaspoon instead, but remember, it won’t have that same fresh punch!

How Can I Cook Perfectly Al Dente Pasta?

Cooking pasta correctly is key for this recipe. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:

• Start with a large pot of salted water; it should taste like the sea! This helps flavor the pasta.
• Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. This prevents it from becoming sticky.
• Check the pasta package for cooking times, but start tasting it a minute or two before the time is up. You want it firm to the bite, not mushy!
• Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help thicken and bind your sauce later.

Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli and Asparagus

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes gathering your ingredients and getting the pasta ready, and about 15 minutes cooking up the veggies and combining everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cooking the Pasta and Veggies:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Just before the pasta finishes cooking (around 3 minutes left), toss in the broccoli florets and asparagus pieces to blanch them. After everything is cooked, drain the pasta and vegetables in a colander, but remember to save 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later!

2. Making the Garlic Oil:

While the pasta cooks, take a large skillet and pour in the olive oil. Heat it on medium. Once hot, add the minced garlic and if you like a little spice, add the red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it smells amazing! Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

3. Combining the Veggies:

Now it’s time to add your drained broccoli and asparagus to the skillet with the garlic. Toss the veggies around for about 2 minutes, making sure they’re well-coated in that delicious garlic oil. They should be bright green and crisp-tender!

4. Mixing It All Together:

Next, add the drained pasta right into the skillet. Now add the lemon zest and lemon juice along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together really well! The liquid will help create a lovely sauce that coats the pasta and veggies. Keep tossing until the sauce slightly thickens and everything is nicely combined.

5. Final Touches:

Season your dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and creaminess. Give it one last toss to mix everything!

6. Serving It Up:

Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your pasta with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top if you wish. Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy your vibrant Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli and Asparagus!

FAQ for Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli and Asparagus

Can I Use Any Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! You can swap out broccoli and asparagus for other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable, so adjust accordingly!

How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also use an olive oil-based substitute instead of butter, if you want a richer taste.

What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Pasta?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or a bit of olive oil and warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Can I Prepare This Pasta in Advance?

You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time! Cook the pasta and veggies, then mix them with the garlic oil. Store everything separately in the fridge and heat them up together when you’re ready to serve. Just add fresh lemon juice and additional Parmesan when reheating for the best flavor!