Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta – Quick & Fresh Weeknight Dinner

There’s something undeniably comforting about pasta, isn’t there? Whether it’s a classic red sauce or something a bit more creative, a bowl of pasta always feels like a warm hug in food form. That’s exactly the feeling this Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta brings to the table. It’s fresh and light, yet still hearty enough to satisfy. It’s rich without being heavy, and simple without being boring.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it walks that perfect line between zesty and creamy. The lemon juice and zest give it that fresh, sunny flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter and optional splash of cream. And then there’s the broccolini—slightly bitter, beautifully green, and just tender enough after a quick sauté in olive oil and garlic. Combined with perfectly cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan, every bite tastes like spring in a bowl.

I first made this on a whim one Wednesday evening when I was short on time and shorter on groceries. I had some broccolini left over from the weekend, a box of pasta in the pantry, and just enough Parmesan to make things interesting. I zested a lemon, threw everything in a pan, and hoped for the best. What came out of that skillet was so unexpectedly delicious that I’ve been making it ever since.

It’s one of those recipes that you’ll want to keep in your back pocket—great for a last-minute dinner, a quick lunch, or even a casual dinner party when you want to impress without too much effort. And the best part? You can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes, start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta has a lot going for it, and it’s not just the short ingredient list or the speedy cook time—though those are definitely part of the appeal. It’s the combination of flavor, texture, and freshness that makes it a winner in every category.

First, let’s talk about flavor. The lemon zest brings a brightness that lifts the entire dish. It’s like a burst of sunshine with every bite. Paired with the mild bitterness of sautéed broccolini and the nutty, salty depth of Parmesan cheese, the flavors are layered, complex, and totally satisfying. A splash of heavy cream, if you choose to include it, ties everything together with a subtle richness that makes the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.

Texture-wise, this dish strikes a perfect balance. The pasta is al dente, which gives it that ideal chew. The broccolini adds a tender-crisp bite, especially if you cook it just until it’s vibrant green. The garlic slices soften just enough in the pan to mellow and infuse the oil with their aromatic flavor. And then there’s the optional crunch—if you toss in a few pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs on top, you’ve got even more texture to love.

But perhaps the best thing about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t need any fancy techniques or equipment. You don’t have to marinate, simmer for hours, or measure with precision. This dish is forgiving and flexible. Don’t have broccolini? Try regular broccoli or even asparagus. No fresh basil? A sprinkle of parsley or thyme will still do the trick. It’s endlessly adaptable, which makes it great for home cooks of all skill levels.

Families love it because the flavors are familiar yet exciting. Kids tend to go for the cheesy pasta, and parents appreciate the built-in veggies and quick prep. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free with a few simple swaps. That means it’s ideal for dinner parties or weeknight meals when you’re feeding a variety of dietary needs.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family of four, this recipe delivers. And once you try it, I guarantee it’ll make its way into your regular rotation.

Health Benefits of this Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta

You might not expect a creamy pasta dish to be on the healthier side, but this one packs in a surprising number of nutritional benefits without sacrificing flavor. Let’s break it down, ingredient by ingredient, so you can see just how nourishing this dish can be.

First up: broccolini. This vibrant green vegetable is a nutrient powerhouse. It’s loaded with vitamin C, which supports your immune system, and vitamin A, which promotes good vision and skin health. It’s also a great source of dietary fiber, helping you feel full and aiding in digestion. Plus, it contains antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and may even help reduce inflammation in the body.

Next, lemon juice and zest bring more than just flavor. Lemons are rich in vitamin C as well, and they contain plant compounds like flavonoids that have been linked to reduced oxidative stress. They also add a tangy brightness that lets you use less salt while still delivering bold flavor.

Garlic is another unsung hero in this dish. Beyond its delicious aroma and deep savory taste, garlic offers potential health benefits like improved cholesterol levels and blood pressure regulation. It’s also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which is a great bonus for such a small ingredient.

The pasta itself provides energy in the form of complex carbohydrates, especially if you use a whole grain or legume-based pasta. While traditional white pasta is perfectly fine in moderation, switching to a higher-fiber version can improve satiety and provide more lasting energy.

Parmesan cheese, though used in modest amounts, contributes protein and calcium. And the optional splash of heavy cream, while adding richness, can also help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables. However, if you’re looking to lighten things up, you can leave the cream out or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Even the olive oil is doing good things for your body. It’s a heart-healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. When used to sauté vegetables, it helps carry flavor while supporting anti-inflammatory functions.

Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced meal that delivers both satisfaction and nourishment. It’s comfort food with benefits—filling, flavorful, and good for you in more ways than one.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the standout qualities of this pasta dish is how quickly it comes together. You don’t need to spend an hour in the kitchen or prep multiple components in advance. In fact, you’ll probably spend more time eating it than you will cooking it.

Total Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Servings: 4 generous portions

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 13g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 480mg

These values can vary slightly depending on the type of pasta and whether you choose to include cream or additional toppings like nuts or breadcrumbs. However, it still falls into a balanced category of meals—providing complex carbs, fiber, healthy fats, and a good punch of plant-based nutrients.

This makes it an ideal choice for a satisfying lunch, a light dinner, or even a special weekend meal that doesn’t require a massive effort or a ton of cleanup. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep-friendly, and busy-schedule-friendly all in one.

Ingredients List of this Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta

Here’s everything you need to make this dreamy, creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta. The ingredient list is short and sweet, yet each item plays a big role in the final flavor and texture of the dish.

For the Pasta

  • 1 lb short pasta (casarecce or fusilli work beautifully, but penne or rigatoni are great alternatives)
  • Salted water, for boiling
For the Broccolini and Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter (adds richness and depth—can substitute with more olive oil if dairy-free)
  • 1 lb broccolini, ends trimmed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (not minced—you want the subtle caramelization from the slices)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon (use organic lemons if possible for zesting)
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a salty, umami punch—use freshly grated for best results)
  • Optional: A splash (1-2 tablespoons) of heavy cream or dairy-free cream, for added richness
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

To Finish

  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or parsley, if that’s what you have on hand)
  • Optional toppings: toasted pine nuts, chili flakes, or breadcrumbs for extra crunch and flavor

Every ingredient here is intentional. The broccolini gives this pasta color and bite. The garlic and lemon layer in flavor. The Parmesan makes it feel indulgent. And the basil adds that fresh, herbaceous lift at the end. Even though it looks simple on paper, the final dish is anything but boring.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now let’s get into the heart of it—the cooking. This recipe is straightforward, but it’s worth walking through each step to make sure you get the best results. From boiling the pasta just right to building a silky sauce in the pan, these directions will guide you with ease. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking. With a little attention to detail and some love stirred in, this dish will turn out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil

The first step is to get your pasta water going. Use a large pot and add a generous amount of salt to the water—think of it as seasoning your pasta from the inside out. It should taste like the sea. This will make a big difference in flavor.

Step 2: Cook the pasta until al dente

Add your pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. That means it should still have a slight bite when you taste it—not mushy, but not raw. It’s important to not overcook, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce later.

Tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help loosen up the sauce later and make it cling beautifully to the pasta.

Step 3: While pasta cooks, prep your broccolini

While the pasta is bubbling away, rinse and chop your broccolini. Trim off the woody ends and cut the stalks into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about being too precise—just make sure they’re roughly uniform so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet

Set a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter and let them melt together, swirling the pan gently to coat the bottom. The combination of the two fats gives you the high heat stability of olive oil and the rich flavor of butter.

Step 5: Sauté the broccolini

Add the chopped broccolini to the skillet and sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes. You want it to become tender, but still retain a bit of crunch. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and allow the broccolini to get some slight browning—it adds flavor.

Step 6: Add garlic and sauté briefly

Once the broccolini is just about done, add your thinly sliced garlic. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the garlic to soften and become fragrant, but not brown. Burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly, so keep an eye on it.

Step 7: Add lemon zest and juice

Next, add the zest of one lemon directly into the pan, followed by the juice. This brightens up everything in the skillet and lifts the earthy flavor of the broccolini. Stir everything to combine and let it cook for another 30 seconds or so, just to let the flavors meld.

Step 8: Toss in the cooked pasta

Drain your pasta and immediately add it to the pan with the broccolini mixture. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated with the garlicky, lemony oil. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water—just a tablespoon or two at a time—to help the sauce loosen and cling.

Step 9: Stir in Parmesan and optional cream

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the hot pasta and stir to combine. If you’re using the optional splash of cream, add it here. Stir gently until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted into a light, creamy sauce. The warmth of the pan and the starchy pasta water help create a velvety texture.

Tip: If you prefer a dairy-free version, omit the cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. The lemon and garlic still carry a ton of flavor.

Step 10: Season and taste

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remember, the Parmesan adds saltiness, so taste before adding more. Adjust as needed.

Step 11: Add fresh basil and any final touches

Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil. This adds a final burst of freshness and balances the rich elements of the dish. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for texture.

Step 12: Serve immediately

Transfer the pasta to plates or bowls and serve hot. You can finish with an extra grating of Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a little more lemon zest if you like.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, when the pasta is silky, the broccolini is vibrant, and the lemon is singing through every bite. It’s simple, but when made with care, it’s absolutely memorable.

Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta

How to Serve of this Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta

There are so many ways to serve this creamy lemon broccolini pasta, depending on your mood and what you’ve got in your kitchen. It’s great on its own, but can also play nicely with a variety of sides and extras.

For a weeknight dinner, serve it straight from the skillet with a big spoon and let everyone help themselves. If you’re cooking for guests, plate it individually with a little flourish—extra basil leaves or lemon zest go a long way.

To make it more substantial, you can serve this pasta with a protein on the side. Grilled chicken, seared turkey sausage, or a flaky white fish all pair beautifully with the lemon and Parmesan flavors. If you want to keep it vegetarian but still add protein, toss in a handful of chickpeas or white beans during the last few minutes of cooking.

You can also serve this dish cold or at room temperature, making it a great picnic or potluck option. Just skip the cream if you plan to eat it later, as the sauce can thicken too much when chilled.

It pairs well with a fresh side salad, especially one with citrus or vinegar to echo the brightness of the pasta. Think arugula with lemon vinaigrette, spinach with strawberries and almonds, or even a simple cucumber salad with dill.

Lastly, serve it with warm bread or garlic toast if you’re in the mood for full-on comfort food. A crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any sauce left at the bottom of your bowl.

Pairing Suggestions

One of the many wonderful things about this creamy lemon broccolini pasta is how versatile it is when it comes to pairings. You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion, and it fits right in with both casual meals and special dinners. Because the dish is light yet flavorful, it pairs best with items that complement its fresh, citrusy profile without overpowering it.

Beverage Pairings

Even though we’re avoiding alcohol-based pairings in this recipe, there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages that enhance the flavors beautifully. For a refreshing drink that mirrors the citrusy zing in the pasta, try sparkling water with lemon or a lightly flavored citrus herbal tea served cold. A cucumber-mint mocktail or lemonade with basil also adds a nice, aromatic balance to the lemon and garlic in the dish.

For a warm beverage option, a mellow green tea or jasmine tea would offer a light floral touch that pairs surprisingly well with the herbal notes of the basil and the broccolini. If you’re serving this pasta for lunch or brunch, iced hibiscus tea or a citrus kombucha would also make lovely, slightly tangy accompaniments.

Side Dish Pairings

Let’s talk side dishes. Because the pasta already contains veggies, you don’t need a heavy side, but adding a little extra texture and freshness can round out the meal.

  • Simple Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with a lemon vinaigrette complements the lemon in the pasta without clashing. Add shaved Parmesan and sunflower seeds for a little crunch.
  • Roasted Carrots or Beets: Their earthy sweetness balances the citrus and saltiness of the pasta. You can roast them with a little olive oil and thyme.
  • Steamed Green Beans: Toss with olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic powder for a crunchy, clean-tasting side that plays well with the creamy elements in the dish.
  • Grilled Zucchini: Mild in flavor but full of texture, zucchini makes a fantastic pairing. A little char from the grill enhances its natural sweetness.

Bread Pairings

Few things complete a pasta dish like a warm piece of bread. You could go with:

  • Garlic Bread: A classic, of course. Make your own with halal butter, garlic, and parsley.
  • Focaccia: Soft, airy, and perfect for dipping in any leftover lemon-Parmesan sauce.
  • Crusty Artisan Loaf: The ultimate for soaking up every last drop.

Together, these pairings help transform this simple pasta dish into a full, satisfying meal that you can serve any day of the week or even at your next dinner party.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

We all love a recipe that’s just as good the next day—or even a few days later—and this creamy lemon broccolini pasta does not disappoint in the leftovers department. With a few smart storage tricks, you can enjoy this dish beyond your initial meal and still keep that fresh, zesty flavor intact.

Storing Leftovers

To store any leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from building up inside the container, which can lead to soggy pasta. Store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If your dish includes the optional heavy cream, the texture may thicken slightly when chilled. That’s totally normal, and it can be fixed easily during reheating with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing Instructions

While you technically can freeze this pasta, the texture may suffer a bit because of the cream and cheese. That said, if you plan to freeze it, here are some tips to make it work:

  • Cool the pasta completely.
  • Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a tablespoon or two of water or broth to help rehydrate the sauce.

Tip: For best results, consider freezing the broccolini and sauce mixture separately from the pasta. You can boil a fresh batch of pasta later and mix it all together right before serving for a better texture.

Reheating Tips

Reheating this dish is simple, but there are a few ways to make sure it tastes just as delicious as it did on day one:

Stovetop Method: Add the pasta to a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Heat over medium-low, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps maintain the best texture.

Microwave Method: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Avoid overheating, especially if using the microwave, as it can cause the cheese and cream to separate or become oily.

With the right care, this dish keeps beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have their pitfalls, and this one is no exception. While it’s hard to mess up a pasta dish this easy and delicious, there are a few common missteps that can impact the flavor or texture. Here’s how to avoid them so your creamy lemon broccolini pasta turns out perfect every single time.

Overcooking the Pasta

This is probably the most common mistake in any pasta dish. If you overcook the pasta, it becomes too soft and loses its satisfying bite. Always cook your pasta until it’s al dente, which means it still has a bit of chew to it. Not only is this more pleasant to eat, but it also holds up better when tossed in the sauce.

Skipping the Pasta Water

That starchy water you reserved before draining your pasta? Don’t forget to use it. It’s a magical ingredient that helps bind the sauce and pasta together. Adding a bit of it to the pan helps the cheese melt smoothly and gives your sauce a silky texture. Skipping this step can result in a dry, clumpy finish.

Burning the Garlic

Garlic burns fast, especially when sliced thin. Make sure you add it to the pan only after the broccolini is mostly cooked, and keep the heat on medium-low. Burnt garlic becomes bitter and can throw off the balance of the dish.

Using Bottled Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice is absolutely essential here. Bottled juice lacks the bright, floral notes that make this dish sing. The zest is just as important, so always use fresh, organic lemons if possible.

Forgetting to Season

Even with Parmesan, lemon, and garlic doing the heavy lifting, don’t underestimate the power of salt and pepper. Season the pasta gradually, and taste as you go. That final sprinkle of salt can be the difference between a good dish and a great one.

Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead

This recipe moves quickly once it starts, so it’s best to have everything prepped before turning on the stove. Slice your garlic, zest your lemon, and chop your broccolini first. You’ll enjoy the process more and avoid that rushed, mid-cook panic.

Avoid these simple mistakes and you’ll be rewarded with a plate of pasta that’s bright, creamy, and perfectly balanced every time.

Pro Tips

Even though this creamy lemon broccolini pasta is simple by design, a few small tweaks and techniques can really elevate it to the next level. These pro tips will help you get the absolute best flavor, texture, and presentation out of every single bowl.

Use High-Quality Pasta

The pasta is the backbone of this dish, so using a good-quality brand really does make a difference. Look for pasta that’s made with 100% semolina flour and has a slightly rough texture on the surface. This helps the sauce cling better and gives the dish that satisfying restaurant feel. Short, twisty pastas like fusilli or casarecce are ideal because their curves hold onto the creamy sauce so well.

Don’t Skip the Zest

It’s tempting to just squeeze in some lemon juice and call it a day, but the zest is where the real magic happens. The zest contains aromatic oils that give the dish an intense lemony aroma without adding more acidity. Use a microplane to grate the zest finely, and add it near the end of cooking for the freshest impact.

Toast the Pine Nuts or Breadcrumbs

If you’re going to add an optional crunchy topping—and you totally should—take a moment to toast your pine nuts or breadcrumbs in a dry pan until golden. This step only takes a couple of minutes but adds an extra layer of nutty flavor and irresistible texture. Just be sure to keep an eye on them; they can go from toasty to burnt in seconds.

Add Greens for Extra Nutrition

Want to up the nutritional value of your pasta without changing the flavor much? Add a handful of spinach, arugula, or kale right at the end of cooking. The heat from the pasta will wilt the greens just enough, and you’ll boost your fiber and vitamin content with barely any effort.

Customize the Creaminess

Some people love a rich, indulgent pasta, while others prefer a lighter touch. The beauty of this dish is that you can control the creaminess easily. For a richer sauce, use the optional heavy cream and a full ½ cup of Parmesan. For something lighter, skip the cream and use less cheese, relying on the pasta water and lemon to bring everything together.

Add Heat if You Like It Spicy

If you like a little kick, don’t be shy with the crushed red pepper flakes. Just a small pinch added with the garlic can totally transform the dish. You can also finish it with a drizzle of chili oil for a slow-building heat that plays beautifully with the lemon and Parmesan.

Serve Immediately

This pasta is best served fresh, when the sauce is creamy and the broccolini still has a bit of snap. While it does reheat well, the texture and flavor are at their absolute best right off the stove. Gather everyone around the table before you toss it all together so it’s ready to serve piping hot.

Keeping these pro tips in mind will not only make your pasta taste better but also help you feel more confident and creative in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Even with a simple, approachable recipe like this one, questions pop up—and that’s totally normal! Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this creamy lemon broccolini pasta, along with answers that will help you troubleshoot and personalize your dish with ease.

Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?

Absolutely. Regular broccoli works just fine if you can’t find broccolini. Just be sure to chop it into small, bite-sized florets so it cooks quickly and evenly. You may want to peel and slice the stems too, as they can be a little tough if left whole.

Is this dish vegan?

As written, this recipe contains butter, Parmesan, and optional cream, so it’s not vegan. However, it’s incredibly easy to adapt. Simply use plant-based butter or extra olive oil, substitute a vegan Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast, and skip the cream—or use a dairy-free version. The dish still comes out flavorful and rich.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! This dish works beautifully with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time, as gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster and can get mushy if overcooked. Also, reserve that pasta water even if it’s gluten-free—it still helps the sauce come together.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Fresh basil is ideal for that pop of herbal flavor at the end, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can substitute fresh parsley or even a little thyme. Dried herbs don’t offer the same brightness, so try to stick with fresh if possible.

Can I add a protein to this dish?

Definitely. This pasta makes a great base for added protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, seared tofu, or turkey bacon bits would all be delicious options. Just cook the protein separately and stir it in when you toss the pasta with the sauce.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much as it cools or while tossing, add a bit of reserved pasta water or broth a tablespoon at a time. Stir gently until you reach your desired consistency. This helps keep the sauce silky and prevents it from clumping.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead—chop the broccolini, zest and juice the lemon, and grate the Parmesan. However, the dish is best when cooked and eaten fresh. If you need to make it ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine just before reheating.

What pasta shapes work best?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, casarecce, penne, or even rotini are ideal because they trap the sauce and bits of garlic and Parmesan in their curves. However, if you only have spaghetti or linguine, those will work too—just make sure to stir everything thoroughly so the sauce distributes evenly.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very much so. The flavors are mild, cheesy, and comforting. If your kids are sensitive to green vegetables, chop the broccolini into smaller pieces and sauté a little longer to soften it more. You can also add extra cheese or even stir in a spoonful of cream cheese to make it more appealing to younger palates.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe scales up easily. Just use a bigger skillet or sauté pan and make sure your pasta water is salted enough for the increased quantity. You may need to add a bit more lemon and Parmesan to taste, but the process stays the same.

With these answers, you’ll be able to adapt, troubleshoot, and experiment with this pasta dish confidently—no stress, no fuss.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This creamy lemon broccolini pasta might just become your new weeknight obsession. It’s the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: quick, fresh, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. With bright citrus flavor, tender green veggies, just the right amount of richness, and a pasta base that’s as comforting as they come, it’s a recipe that delivers on both taste and ease.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day, whipping up a family dinner that everyone will love, or looking for something impressive but low-effort for your next get-together, this dish fits the bill beautifully. It comes together in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and is forgiving enough that you can tweak it based on what you have on hand.

I hope this recipe makes its way into your regular rotation like it has in mine. And when you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try it with pine nuts? Did you add a protein or switch up the greens? Let me know how you made it your own!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or family who love easy, flavorful meals. Post your photos, tag me if you’re on social media, and don’t forget to drop a comment below—I love hearing from you and seeing your creations.

Now go grab that lemon, get your pasta water boiling, and make yourself a bowl of something bright, creamy, and totally crave-worthy. Happy cooking!

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Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta

Creamy Lemon Broccolini Pasta – Quick & Fresh Weeknight Dinner


  • Author: Julia Hart
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A light and creamy pasta dish bursting with zesty lemon, tender broccolini, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb short pasta (casarecce or fusilli)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • 1 lb broccolini, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • Zest + juice of 1 lemon

  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 3 tbsp chopped fresh basil

  • Optional: 1–2 tbsp heavy cream, toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs


Instructions

  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté broccolini for 5–6 minutes.

  • Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. Stir in lemon zest and juice.

  • Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together.

  • Stir in Parmesan and optional cream. Use pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.

  • Season with salt and pepper. Add fresh basil and optional toppings. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor.

  • Swap broccolini with broccoli or asparagus if needed.

  • Vegan-friendly if using dairy-free alternatives.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing, Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

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