One Pot Pasta (Broccoli and Lemon)

This with citrus comes together in under 30 minutes. A combination of two tsp. of finely grated lemon zest and three Tbsp. of lemon juice, freshly squeezed perks up penne with broccoli and garlic. Less is more in this quick and easy weeknight dinner. It calls for just five main ingredients (penne, broccoli, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan) and requires minimal cleanup.

kosher salt
black pepper, freshly ground
1 lb penne
1 lb broccoli, head cut into florets (3½ cups), stems peeled, thinly sliced (1 cup)
1 clove garlic, finely grated
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp. lemon zest, finely grated
3 Tbsp. lemon juice, freshly grated (~ 1 lemon)
1 oz (½ cup) Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Garnish:
finely grated Parmesan cheese

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook 5 minutes. Add broccoli and cook until pasta is just under al dente and broccoli is crisp-tender and bright green, 3-4 minutes more. Drain, then add pasta and broccoli back to pot.

Toss with garlic, oil, lemon zest and juice, and cheese. Serve, topped with more cheese.

Makes 4-6 servings.