Name: Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli: A Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Mafaldine Pasta (Can substitute with linguine or fettuccine); 2 cups Broccoli (Chopped finely for seamless integration); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (Can use unsalted with a pinch of salt); 2 cloves Garlic (Finely minced); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with cashew cream for vegan version); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Use fresh zest for best flavor); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Use freshly squeezed); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Keep extra for serving); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (Adjust to taste); 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water (Use as needed for sauce consistency)

As I tossed the vibrant mafaldine pasta into a bubbling pot of salted water, the anticipation of a quick dinner filled the air. Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli is a dish that effortlessly combines creamy comfort with a burst of citrus brightness. In just 25 minutes, you can create a luscious meal featuring ruffled noodles enveloped in a velvety lemon cream sauce, punctuated by the satisfying crunch of finely chopped broccoli. Not only is this recipe a delightful vegetarian option, but it’s also a perfect solution to busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet uncomplicated. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a dish that impresses every time. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why is Pasta Limone So Popular?

Quick Dinner Solution: This recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence yet flavor is non-negotiable.

Bursting with Freshness: The vibrant lemon zest and juice elevate the dish, providing an irresistible brightness complemented by the earthy broccoli.

Versatile Ingredients: Customize to your tastes! You can switch the pasta type or add proteins like grilled chicken. For a vegan option, try using cashew cream and nutritional yeast.

Comfort Food Reimagined: It’s a delightful twist that combines all the creamy goodness you love, reminiscent of classic macaroni but with an upscale flair.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be drawn to this colorful dish, making it an easy sell at the dinner table. Pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a wholesome meal!

Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Mafaldine Pasta – These ruffled noodles are perfect for holding the creamy sauce; try linguine or fettuccine if needed.

For the Vegetables
• Broccoli – Adds crunch to the dish and pairs beautifully with the sauce; chop finely for seamless integration.

For the Sauce
• Salted Butter – Provides richness when sautéing garlic and broccoli; unsalted can be used with a pinch of salt.
• Garlic – Infuses flavor and aroma; finely mince to ensure even distribution in the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce; substitute with cashew cream for a vegan version.
• Lemon Zest – Brightens the dish with fresh citrus notes; vital for an authentic taste—avoid bottled juice.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the creaminess with its acidity; use in half for layering flavors during cooking.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and umami depth; keep extra for serving.

For Seasoning
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste.

For Sauce Adjusting
• Reserved Pasta Water – Key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency without skimping on flavor; use as needed.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the mafaldine pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. The pasta should be tender yet still firm to the bite, allowing it to perfectly absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the finely chopped broccoli along with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the broccoli becomes bright green and slightly tender. This quick cooking will keep the broccoli crunchy while infusing the dish with lovely flavor.

Step 3: Add the Garlic
Next, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic into the skillet with the broccoli. Cook for another minute, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. The aroma of garlic will enhance the comforting base of your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli, filling your kitchen with an inviting scent that beckons everyone to the table.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream along with the zest of 1 lemon and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon, creating a velvety foundation for the pasta.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta
Add the drained mafaldine pasta and half the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together gently for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually splash in some reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired silky consistency.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve the dish hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and an additional squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. The final presentation will showcase a beautiful dish, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy a comforting yet sophisticated meal.

Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli Variations

Feel free to tweak this dish to suit your taste buds or dietary needs for a personalized experience!

Linguine or Fettuccine: Swap mafaldine for linguine or fettuccine if you’re in the mood for a different noodle shape.
Protein-Packed: Add grilled shrimp or sliced chicken breasts for a satisfying protein boost that transforms this dish into a hearty meal.
Vegan Alternative: Use cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese for a creamy vegan version that’s just as delicious.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts to give your dish a delightful crunch while adding depth and complexity to every bite.
Greens Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale at the same time as the garlic for added nutrients and color that elevate your pasta.
Heat It Up: For a spicy twist, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to give the dish an exciting kick.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end to brighten the flavors, adding a garden-fresh touch that’s irresistible.
Creamy Variation: For a rich twist, blend in some cream cheese while heating the sauce to create even more creamy decadence.

And if you’re looking for more delightful recipes, consider trying Grandmas Bread Sauce as a side or enjoy a comforting treat like Smashed Dates Chocolate.

Make Ahead Options

These Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the broccoli and sauté it with garlic up to 3 days in advance; simply store in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure out and combine the heavy cream, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese for a quick sauce prep that can be refrigerated as well. When you’re ready to enjoy dinner, just cook the mafaldine pasta, warm up the sautéed broccoli mixture, and combine everything with the prepared sauce. This method ensures your meal is just as delicious while cutting down on your evening prep time!

How to Store and Freeze Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli

Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, do not keep it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to revive the creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Always reheat slowly over low heat, adding reserved pasta water if needed, to restore the creamy texture of your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli.

Expert Tips for Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli

Chop Broccoli Finely: The smaller the broccoli pieces, the better they blend into the creamy sauce. Avoid large chunks that can dominate the dish.
Fresh vs. Bottled Lemon: Always opt for fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant aroma that elevates the Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli.
Reserved Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water! It’s crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency, ensuring you get that perfect creamy texture without losing flavor.
Taste as You Go: Adjust brightness and creaminess by tasting during the process. Add more lemon juice or seasoning if needed to balance the flavors.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, cook mafaldine just until al dente, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce without losing its charm.
Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add proteins like chicken or shrimp, or mix in spinach for additional nutrients, personalizing the Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli to your family’s preferences.

What to Serve with Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli

Enhance your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complement the creamy, zesty goodness.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, garlic bread adds a comforting crunch that pairs beautifully with pasta.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, balancing the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring additional textures and flavors, making your dinner plate vibrant and nutritious.
Grilled Chicken: For a heartier option, tender grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor that lifts the entire dish.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay complements the lemony notes perfectly, enhancing the meal’s brightness while offering a soothing finish.
Dessert Option: A lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the richness of the pasta, providing a delightful finish to your dining experience.

These pairings cater to a variety of textures and flavors, turning your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli into a well-rounded feast!

Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli Recipe FAQs

What kind of broccoli should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using fresh broccoli, as it offers the best flavor and crunch. Make sure to finely chop it so it blends seamlessly into the sauce. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish!

How should I store leftover Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of milk or water to help restore the creamy texture, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as when it was first made.

Can I freeze Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli?
Absolutely! You can freeze this pasta dish for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in an airtight, freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it gently on the stovetop, adding reserved pasta water as needed to return the sauce to that creamy consistency.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has thickened more than you’d like after cooking, simply add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This not only helps thin out the sauce but keeps it flavorful, making your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli come to life!

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, it can be easily adapted! Simply replace the heavy cream with cashew cream and the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. This way, you can enjoy the zesty flavors of the dish while keeping it entirely plant-based.

How can I adjust for dietary restrictions or allergies?
If you’re catering to allergies, be sure to substitute accordingly—use gluten-free pasta if needed, and check that your heavy cream or cheese replacements are free of allergens. Since this recipe is naturally vegetarian, it’s a great base for accommodating various dietary needs!