Hard Times Lemon Butter Pasta with Frozen Broccoli

• 8 oz (about 1 cup) pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 12 oz frozen broccoli florets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. 2 While pasta cooks, steam frozen broccoli in the microwave according to package instructions or in a steamer basket.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. 4 Add butter to the skillet and let melt, then whisk in lemon juice and zest.
5. 5 Toss cooked pasta and steamed broccoli into the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese and enough reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
6. 6 Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a kick.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Tongs
• Vegetable peeler (for zest)

Variations

• Add cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
• Substitute spinach for broccoli for a different green

Substitutions

• Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
• Substitute frozen peas for broccoli if preferred.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Lightly dressed arugula salad

Nutrition

Tips

• Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a creamy sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Not recommended due to the pasta texture changes upon thawing. Best enjoyed fresh.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
• A glass of chilled white wine complements the lemon beautifully.

FAQ