Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta

Name: Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice); 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta for an easy weeknight dinner. The combination of tender roasted broccoli, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that's both fresh and comforting. It's simple enough to whip up after a long day, but it still feels special with its vibrant flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into our meals without sacrificing taste. I'm excited to share how this recipe comes together effortlessly, bringing joy to the table with every bite.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:31:24.566Z

When I first tried Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta, I was mesmerized by how such simple ingredients could create a burst of flavor. Roasting the broccoli enhances its nuttiness, and when tossed with the pasta, it becomes a delicious companion. Adding lemon zest really elevates the dish, offering brightness that makes it perfect for any season. I even discovered that using whole wheat pasta adds a lovely texture while increasing fiber content!

One essential tip I’ve learned is to ensure the broccoli is cut into small florets, which not only helps in even roasting but also encourages the lemon sauce to coat each piece perfectly. I love serving this with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top—such a delightful combination! It's guaranteed to become a frequent visitor in our dinner rotation.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly roasted broccoli adds a heavenly flavor and texture
Refreshing lemon zest brightens up the dish, making it irresistible
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Magic of Roasting Broccoli

Roasting broccoli enhances its natural sweetness and brings out a delightful nuttiness that a simple steam cannot achieve. When tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, the florets turn crispy on the edges while maintaining a tender bite. Make sure to spread the broccoli out on the baking sheet in a single layer, allowing it to roast evenly. For added flavor, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or nutritional yeast before roasting.

Keep an eye on the broccoli as it roasts; about 15 minutes is usually sufficient, but all ovens vary. Check for a vibrant green color and lightly charred tips, which indicate that the broccoli is ready. If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the roasting time by a few minutes. This step not only enhances the taste but also creates a beautiful contrast to the al dente pasta.

Crafting the Perfect Sauce

The garlic and lemon sauce is what ties this dish together, providing depth and brightness. When sautéing garlic, it's crucial to keep a close eye on it; it should be fragrant and golden but not browned. If you accidentally overcook it, the garlic can turn bitter, so remove it from the heat if it starts to darken too much. Adding lemon zest at this moment allows the oils to release, creating a fragrant base that permeates the dish.

Using the reserved pasta water is key to achieving a silky sauce. The starchy water helps emulsify the olive oil and lemon juice, creating a cohesive texture rather than a greasy coating. Aim for a consistency that lightly coats the pasta—just add a few tablespoons at a time until you reach the desired lightness. This technique not only enhances flavor but also ensures that every bite has that wonderful blend of citrus and garlic.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Once you have everything ready, you'll be set to make this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roast the Broccoli

On a baking sheet, toss the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes, until they are tender and slightly crispy.

Cook the Pasta

While the broccoli roasts, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the lemon zest and juice.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and roasted broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together and add reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and additional lemon zest if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick. You can also substitute the broccoli with your favorite seasonal veggies.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Broccoli Lemon Pasta can be partially prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Cook the pasta and roast the broccoli earlier in the day and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just reheat them gently together in a skillet when you're ready to eat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water and fresh lemon juice to revive the flavors.

If you plan to enjoy this dish later in the week, consider making a double batch so you have leftovers. Store any unused pasta with the sauce in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, adding a little extra olive oil can help refresh the texture, keeping it from becoming too dry.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to personalize this dish by incorporating other vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes. You can roast them alongside the broccoli or sauté them in the skillet with the garlic to introduce different textures and flavors. If you're looking to increase the protein content, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions, complementing the lemon and garlic beautifully.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties made from rice, quinoa, or legumes. Just be mindful of cooking times, as these alternatives may require different handling. You can also replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative made from nuts or use nutritional yeast for added flavor without the dairy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but roasting times may vary. Thaw and drain first to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for pasta to make it gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa to enjoy this dish without gluten.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would all pair beautifully with this pasta.