Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more! This Roasted Broccoli Pasta with Lemon and Feta is not just a meal—it's a symphony of flavors that combines the smoky char of roasted broccoli, the bright zinginess of fresh lemon, and the creamy, tangy punch of feta cheese. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast seeking a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread the broccoli evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it is tender and slightly crispy on the edges. Stir halfway through to ensure even roasting.
- While the broccoli is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted broccoli, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss everything together until well combined.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the pasta and broccoli.
- Season the dish with additional salt and pepper to taste, and give it one last gentle toss to incorporate all ingredients.
- Serve the roasted broccoli pasta warm, garnished with extra lemon zest or crumbled feta if desired.
Tips
- Ensure even roasting by cutting broccoli florets into similar-sized pieces and spreading them out on the baking sheet without overcrowding.
- Reserve pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, well-coated pasta dish.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or garlic powder to the broccoli before roasting.
- Use fresh lemon for the most vibrant citrus flavor—bottled lemon juice can taste flat and artificial.
- Choose a high-quality feta cheese for the best taste. Greek or Bulgarian feta tends to have the most authentic flavor.
- If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would complement this dish beautifully.
- For a gluten-free version, simply swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free alternative.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
