Mafaldine Pasta Limone with Broccoli
A delightful pasta dish that combines the freshness of lemon and the wholesome goodness of broccoli, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Broccoli
- 0.5 Lb Mafaldine pasta Wide ribbon pasta with wavy edges
- 1.5 Cups Broccoli (super finely chopped) Fresh, adds vibrant color and nutrition
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp Salty butter For sautéing broccoli
- 4 Cloves Garlic (finely diced) Enhances the flavor of the sauce
- 1 Cup Heavy cream Creates a rich and creamy sauce
- 1 Zest of 1 Lemon Adds a fresh lemon flavor
- 0.5 Lemon Juice of 1/2 Lemon For acidity and brightness in the dish
- 0.5 Cup Parmesan Cheese Finely grated, adds flavor and creaminess
- Kosher salt To taste
- Fresh cracked pepper To taste
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add in the mafaldine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Sautéing Broccoli and Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt the salty butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped broccoli and sauté until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Preparing the Cream Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, mixing thoroughly. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, allowing the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained mafaldine to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the creamy lemon sauce. If the pasta seems too dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach desired consistency.
Finishing with Parmesan
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste.
Serving
- Dish the pasta into bowls and top with additional Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Notes
For best results, use fresh broccoli. Customize flavors by experimenting with different citrus juices. Feel free to add protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.