Lemon-Garlic Pasta with Roasted Broccolini

Spring is in full swing, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a dish that’s light, zesty, and packed with fresh flavors? This Lemon-Garlic Pasta with Roasted Broccolini is the perfect way to usher in those longer days and warmer nights. The broccolini, roasted to perfection, pairs beautifully with the fresh garlic and tangy lemon sauce, creating a simple yet satisfying meal. Whether you're making it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to brighten your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Easy to Make: A simple pasta dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes.
✅ Bursting with Flavor: Fresh lemon and garlic create a zesty, savory sauce that elevates the whole dish.
✅ Light Yet Satisfying: The roasted broccolini adds a perfect balance of crisp-tender texture and earthy flavor.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a spring gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need:

• 8 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)

• 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed

• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast, for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Roast the Broccolini

Toss the broccolini with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes, until tender and slightly charred.

3. Cook the Pasta

While the broccolini roasts, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Be sure to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

4. Prepare the Garlic-Lemon Sauce

In a large pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the garlic. Pour in the lemon zest and juice, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined.

6. Serve

Plate the pasta and top with the roasted broccolini. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, vegan parmesan, or nutritional yeast if desired. Serve immediately.

This Lemon-Garlic Pasta with Roasted Broccolini is the perfect spring meal. With fresh flavors, minimal effort, and a burst of vibrant green from the broccolini, it’s an easy dish that will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a light spring lunch, this recipe is sure to impress!