Broccoli Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta

We’re making Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta—a delicious and nutritious meal that’s packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. This pasta dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family gathering, this pasta is sure to be a hit.
Imagine twirling your fork into a steaming bowl of wholewheat pasta coated in a zesty lemon and chilli sauce, with tender broccoli florets adding a delightful crunch. The combination of tangy lemon, spicy chilli, and the earthy goodness of broccoli creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta
- Healthy and Delicious: This pasta dish is not only packed with flavor but also with nutritious ingredients. Wholewheat pasta adds fiber, while broccoli provides essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your health.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pasta dish comes together in no time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this pasta dish with your favorite add-ins. Whether you prefer extra veggies, different types of cheese, or additional proteins, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences.
How to Make It
Alright, let’s get started! Making Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta is easier than you might think. Here’s a detailed overview to guide you through the process:
First things first, gather your ingredients. You’ll need wholewheat pasta, broccoli florets, garlic, chilli flakes, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Having all your ingredients ready will make the cooking process much smoother.
Next up, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chilli flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Now, it’s time to add the broccoli. Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet and cook until they’re tender and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If the skillet becomes too dry, add a splash of pasta water to keep the broccoli from burning.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water and drain the pasta. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and toss everything together. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and stir well to combine. If the pasta seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Finally, serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chilli flakes. Enjoy the zesty, spicy, and wholesome flavors of your Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta!

Make Ahead Method
If you’re planning to serve this Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta for a special occasion or just want to have some ready for the week, you can definitely make it ahead of time. Here’s how:
Prepare the pasta and broccoli as instructed and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and broccoli in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of olive oil and pasta water as needed to restore the creamy consistency. This method ensures that your pasta stays fresh and delicious, even if you make it ahead of time.
Alternatively, you can cook the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven. Place the cooked pasta in a baking dish and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures that your pasta stays fresh and delicious, even if you make it ahead of time.
Pro Tips
Making the perfect Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta involves a few key tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, lemon juice, and broccoli. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in the taste of the dish.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: To ensure the pasta holds up well in the sauce, cook it al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, which will prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is key to creating a creamy sauce. Reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta and use it as needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- Adjust the Heat: The amount of chilli can be adjusted to your liking. Start with a small amount and add more if you prefer a spicier dish. Remember, you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the garnish. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and chilli flakes adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

Storage Options
Storing your Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta properly will help it stay fresh for longer:
- Refrigerator: If you plan to eat the pasta within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a skillet with a bit of olive oil and pasta water to restore its creamy texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Tools For This Recipe
Having the right tools can make creating this Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta a breeze:
- Large Skillet: You’ll need a large skillet for cooking the garlic, chilli, and broccoli. A non-stick skillet is ideal for preventing the ingredients from burning.
- Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is useful for combining the ingredients and tossing the pasta with the sauce. It helps ensure that everything is well mixed and evenly coated.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key in cooking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient. This will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Zester and Juicer: A zester and juicer are essential for extracting the lemon zest and juice. Fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright and tangy flavor to the dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While wholewheat pasta is traditional, you can use other types of pasta like spaghetti, fusilli, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly1.
Q: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
A: To prevent the garlic from burning, cook it over medium heat and keep a close eye on it. As soon as it becomes fragrant and golden, proceed with the next step or remove the skillet from the heat.
Q: Can I make this recipe without chilli?
A: Sure thing! If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the chilli or reduce the amount to your liking. The dish will still be delicious, just with a less spicy flavor profile.
Q: What can I serve with this Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta?
A: This pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Sauté them separately and add them to the pasta along with the broccoli.
- Cheese Variations: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use other types of cheese like pecorino or grana padano. They will give the dish a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs like oregano or basil. They will give the pasta a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pasta. This will give it a subtle kick that balances beautifully with the lemon and broccoli.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a flavorful and healthy Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. The combination of tangy lemon, spicy chilli, and the earthy goodness of broccoli creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this pasta is guaranteed to impress.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. I promise it won’t disappoint. And when you do, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and see any creative twists you added to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz wholewheat pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes adjust to taste
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the wholewheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chilli flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If the skillet becomes too dry, add a splash of pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and toss everything together. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and stir well to combine. If the pasta seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chilli flakes.
- Enjoy your homemade Broccoli, Chilli and Lemon Wholewheat Pasta!