Description

This Warm Broccoli, Almond & Lemon Pasta recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that combines whole wheat pasta, tender broccoli florets, toasted almonds, and bright lemon zest and juice. Enhanced with garlic and a touch of red pepper flakes, this easy-to-make pasta is perfect for a quick, nutritious weeknight meal. Finished with optional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it delivers a delightful balance of textures and citrusy freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

8 ounces whole wheat pasta
2 cups broccoli florets

Sauce and Seasoning

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes

1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package directions. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to ensure they become tender yet crisp. Drain both pasta and broccoli together, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
Toast Almonds: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: To the toasted almonds, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, enhancing the flavor base.
Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet with the almonds and garlic. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and the reserved pasta water. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Add Finishing Touches and Serve: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to coat evenly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish warm, enjoying the bright, nutty, and savory flavors.

Notes

For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit completely for no heat.
Reserve some pasta water to help create a light sauce that coats the pasta well.
Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients but you can substitute with regular pasta if preferred.
Toast almonds carefully as they can burn quickly; stirring continuously helps prevent this.