This Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta is a bright and fresh dish that pairs perfectly with tender broccoli and asparagus. The garlic adds great flavor, making it a delightful meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using linguine for its nice bite, but spaghetti works too. If you’re gluten-free, try brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta for a similar experience.
Broccoli & Asparagus: Broccolini is a sweet option, but regular broccoli works just as well. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans are a great substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go! It adds great flavor. You could use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh really improves the dish.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish! If short on lemons, a splash of vinegar can help, but taste as you go to ensure it’s not too sour.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is delicious here. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta may seem straightforward, but there are techniques to keep in mind for the best results:
- Salt Your Water: Make it taste like the sea. This is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out.
- Al Dente Checks: Start checking your pasta a minute or two before the package instructions say it’s done. It should be firm but not hard.
- Reserving Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps to bond the sauce and pasta.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked pasta that combines beautifully with your sauce!
Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli and Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 1 cup broccoli florets (or broccolini if preferred)
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish requires about 10 minutes of preparation time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick 25-minute meal! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re pressed for time but still want something delicious and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Remember to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick!
2. Blanching the Vegetables:
About 3 minutes before the pasta is ready, gently add the broccoli florets and asparagus pieces to the pasta water. This will brighten their color and keep them nice and crunchy. Once they are cooked, drain both the pasta and the vegetables together using a colander. Be sure to save about half a cup of the pasta water for later!
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as it can taste bitter.
4. Combining Everything:
Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and asparagus to the skillet, and toss everything together so that it’s coated in the delicious garlic oil.
5. Adding Flavor:
Carefully stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and capers. If the mixture looks a bit dry, you can gradually mix in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency for the sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and give everything a good toss.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your beautiful pasta immediately! Top with extra Parmesan cheese for yummy flavor, and add a lemon wedge to the side. If you like, you can sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Enjoy this fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make lemon garlic pasta packed with tender green veggies! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta with Broccoli and Asparagus
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While broccoli and asparagus are delicious choices, feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, peas, or bell peppers also work wonderfully in this dish.
Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for adding a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the pasta and blanch the veggies ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and heat everything together just before serving. Add the garlic oil and lemon juice right before serving for the best flavor!
