Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

If you are searching for a dish that feels like a fresh breeze on your plate, then the Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant pasta combines crisp broccoli florets, tender rotini, and a bright lemon butter sauce, all finished with rich Parmesan and tender spinach leaves. Every bite delivers a wonderful balance of zesty citrus, savory cheese, and wholesome greens, making it not only delicious but also a gorgeous, colorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you want something quick for weeknight dinners or a dish that feels like a special treat, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing that bright, fresh flavor and perfect texture to your dish.

• 3 quarts water: Essential for boiling the pasta and broccoli evenly, ensuring everything cooks to perfection.
• 1 tablespoon salt: Boosts the flavor of the pasta water, which seasons the pasta from the inside out.
• 1 & 1/2 pounds broccoli (fresh): Adds a satisfying crunch and fresh green pop, rich in nutrients.
• 1 pound rotini pasta: Its twisted shape grabs onto the lemony sauce beautifully.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Creates a luscious base for the sauce and adds buttery richness.
• 1 large lemon (zested and juiced): Delivers that zesty brightness that defines the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed and minced): Adds depth and a gentle kick of savoriness.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper: Brings just enough heat to balance the fresh flavors.
• 3-4 cups fresh spinach: Wilts down for a tender, earthy note and a beautiful color contrast.
• 1 cup Parmesan (fresh, plus more to garnish): Gives the dish a salty, nutty finish and creamy texture.
• Olive oil (to garnish): Adds a silky finish and enhances the freshness.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): The ultimate seasoning duo that ties everything together.
• Lemon wedges (fresh, to garnish): Perfect for an extra squeeze of citrus when serving.

How to Make Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Bring Salted Water to a Boil

Start by filling a large skillet or pot with 3 quarts of water and adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil. This salty water is your pasta’s flavor foundation, so don’t skip this step.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the water heats, trim your broccoli stems and cut the florets into bite-sized pieces. Keeping them uniform ensures even cooking and a nice texture contrast in the final dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta with Broccoli

Add the rotini to the boiling water and cook on high for 4 minutes. Then add the broccoli florets, cover with a lid, and set a timer for 3 minutes. The broccoli will steam perfectly while the pasta finishes cooking.

Step 4: Drain Pasta and Broccoli

Once the timer goes off, turn off the heat and drain your pasta and broccoli using a colander or a cleverly held lid. This keeps them together for the next steps and prevents losing those delicious cooking waters.

Step 5: Add Fresh Spinach

Return the pasta and broccoli to the pan and stir in 3 to 4 cups of fresh spinach. Sprinkle on your lemon zest and let it sit a few minutes so the spinach wilts naturally, adding softness and a pop of color.

Step 6: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. If you like, let the butter brown slightly for a nutty flavor, but this is optional. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 7: Combine Lemon Juice and Butter

Turn off the heat and stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the butter mixture. Pour this vibrant lemon butter sauce over your pasta mixture and stir carefully to coat everything evenly.

Step 8: Add Parmesan and Season

Finally, stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, drizzle a little olive oil for sheen, and season generously with salt and pepper. This step brings together the creamy, tangy, and savory notes beautifully.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top your pasta with extra Parmesan and fresh lemon wedges for that final burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy every bright, comforting bite!

How to Serve Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil elevate this dish with buttery richness and creamy texture. Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty kick that lets everyone adjust the brightness to their liking.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe pairs perfectly with crisp green salads or a crusty, rustic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. For something heartier, a simple grilled chicken or pan-seared fish works wonderfully alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. You can even add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top for a delightful crunch and sophisticated flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can easily store any leftover Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will mellow slightly but remain delicious.

Freezing

While fresh pasta dishes don’t freeze as well as heartier stews, you can freeze this recipe if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is fine, but watch the time to avoid overcooking the broccoli or wilting the spinach too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for capturing the sauce, penne, farfalle, or fusilli also work beautifully and hold the flavors well.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

You can substitute baby kale or arugula, though the flavor and texture will be a bit different. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well before adding.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based margarine, and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternatives for that cheesy flavor.

How can I make the dish more filling?

Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for protein, which will make this already satisfying pasta even heartier.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can chop the broccoli and spinach, zest and juice the lemon, and even cook the pasta a day in advance. Just store each separately to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is a vibrant, easy meal that never fails to impress. Its bright lemon notes and fresh veggies make it both comforting and lively. If you’re craving a fast, flavorful, and wholesome dinner idea, give this recipe a try — it just might become your new favorite go-to dish!

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