Sliding the plate of Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli onto the table feels like a mini celebration. In just 25 minutes, this vibrant dish transforms everyday ingredients into a creamy, comforting dinner that sings with lemony brightness. The ruffled mafaldine noodles love to embrace the silky sauce, while the finely chopped broccoli provides a crunch that makes each bite satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick pasta recipe is not just vegetarian-friendly; it’s also a delightful way to breathe life into your dining routine. Imagine serving this at your next family meal, where the aroma fills the air and sparks smiles all around. Ready to discover how easy it is to bring this zesty Italian classic to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Quick & Easy: It takes only 25 minutes to whip up this delightful dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
Creamy Comfort: The silky lemon cream sauce envelops the pasta, delivering a luxurious mouthfeel that’s truly satisfying.
Veggie-Packed: With nutritious broccoli integrated into the dish, you’ll feel good about serving this to your loved ones.
Versatile Base: Swap in fettuccine or linguine if mafaldine isn’t available, assuring this recipe can easily fit your pantry staples.
Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside crusty bread and your favorite salad, or pair with grilled chicken for an extra touch—a combo that’s sure to impress!
Elevate your weeknight dinners by adding a burst of flavor with Pasta Salad Sweet.
Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Mafaldine Pasta – The ruffled edges hold the sauce beautifully; can substitute with linguine or fettuccine.
For the Sauce
• Salted Butter – Provides richness and flavor as a sautéing fat.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is key for the best taste; adds aromatic flavor.
• Heavy Cream – Essential for creating a luxurious, creamy sauce.
• Lemon Zest – Fresh zest brightens the dish; avoid bottled alternatives for the best flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Enhances the overall depth of flavor; divided to control tartness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Imparts a salty, umami flavor; use extra for serving.
For the Veggies
• Broccoli – Adds texture and nutrition; finely chop to integrate well into the sauce. Frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained.
For Seasoning
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and spice; freshly cracked is preferred.
To Finish
• Reserved Pasta Water – Key for achieving a clingy sauce; used to adjust consistency.
This Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli creation will become a quick pasta recipe favorite in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli
Step 1: Boil Pasta
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 8 oz of mafaldine pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter until it bubbles gently. Add 1.5 cups of finely chopped broccoli along with a pinch of salt, sautéing for about 1 minute until the broccoli brightens and slightly softens, creating a vibrant base for your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves into the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Monitor closely to prevent the garlic from browning, as you want to preserve its fresh aroma. The blend of garlic and butter will infuse your dish with rich flavor.
Step 4: Make Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream along with the lemon zest and 0.5 cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the sauce begins to simmer, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes luxurious, perfect for clinging to the pasta.
Step 5: Combine
Add the drained mafaldine pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet, gently tossing it together. Squeeze in half of the reserved lemon juice for brightness, then gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency—a creamy embrace for each noodle.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors pop. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a final squeeze of lemon for a delightful finish that elevates every bite.
Expert Tips for Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli
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Chop Broccoli Finely: Ensure even distribution and texture; larger pieces may not blend well with the creamy sauce.
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Fresh Ingredients Only: Use fresh lemon zest and juice to enhance the dish’s bright flavor; avoid bottled alternatives that can dull the taste.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining; its starchiness helps to bind the Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli sauce to the noodles seamlessly.
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Taste As You Go: Adjust seasoning and lemon acidity throughout cooking to achieve the perfect balance of creamy and zesty notes.
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Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente to prevent soggy noodles; they should hold their shape and texture against the rich sauce.
How to Store and Freeze Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftover Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months; however, the texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, heat the pasta gently in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Stir over low heat until warmed through.
Avoid Refreezing: Do not refreeze once the pasta has been thawed to maintain quality and taste.
Make Ahead Options
Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli is a fantastic dish for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy sauce (excluding the pasta) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, finely chop the broccoli ahead of time and refrigerate it for freshness. When you’re ready to serve, cook the mafaldine pasta, then combine it with the sauce and add any reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. To maintain flavor, be sure to toss the pasta and sauce soon after cooking for ultimate creaminess—this dish will be just as delicious as when freshly made!
Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli Variations
Feel free to get creative with your rendition of this delightful dish to match your taste buds!
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Different Pasta: Swap out mafaldine for linguine or fettuccine for a different texture.
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Add Protein: Transform your dish by incorporating grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal that still feels light.
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Creamy Vegan Option: Use cashew cream and nutritional yeast to lighten it up and make this dish vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic for a warming kick that will surprise your taste buds!
Mix and match flavors to suit your family’s preferences. And if you’re interested in complementing your pasta with a vibrant side, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Pasta Salad Sweet. Enjoy creating your perfect dish!
What to Serve with Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli?
Slide into a meal full of vibrant flavors and comforting textures that elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy edges and buttery garlic goodness make this a perfect side that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
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Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens topped with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the creamy pasta.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus with a bit of char offers an earthy contrast that enhances the lemony brightness of the dish.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and savory depth, making it a complete meal for a family gathering.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly, enhancing the lemon flavors while keeping the meal light.
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Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert cleanses the palate after the rich pasta, making for a delightful finish to your dinner.
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Pesto Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with basil pesto and tomatoes creates a burst of flavor that plays off the pasta’s fresh notes.
Each of these delightful pairings ensures that your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli shines even brighter on your dinner table.
Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What kind of broccoli should I use?
You can use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture; finely chop it to ensure it integrates well into the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the skillet.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, ensure that it’s cool before sealing, which helps maintain its vibrant flavors and textures.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick after reheating?
If you find your reheated pasta sauce too thick, simply add a splash of milk or water. Stir it in over low heat until you reach your desired creaminess. This will help revive the luxurious texture of your dish!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can make it vegan by substituting the heavy cream with cashew cream and using nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
What if I don’t have mafaldine pasta?
No problem at all! Mafaldine can easily be swapped for any long pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose as each has its unique texture and cooking duration.
Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli: A Creamy Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 8 oz of mafaldine pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter until it bubbles gently. Add 1.5 cups of finely chopped broccoli along with a pinch of salt, sautéing for about 1 minute until the broccoli brightens and slightly softens.
- Next, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves into the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Monitor closely to prevent the garlic from browning.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream along with the lemon zest and 0.5 cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the sauce begins to simmer, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the drained mafaldine pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet, gently tossing it together. Squeeze in half of the reserved lemon juice, then gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Season your Mafaldine Pasta Limone With Broccoli with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a final squeeze of lemon.
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