This 20-minute Lemon Pesto Penne is the ultimate weeknight meal for anyone craving vibrant flavor without the fuss. Combining the bright zest of lemon with the herbaceous notes of pesto, this dish is both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. Our recipe elevates simple ingredients like whole wheat penne, baby broccoli, and roasted tomatoes, infusing them with a zesty pesto sauce. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor can be packed into such a short cooking time. This lemon pesto pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for families and individuals alike.

⏱ Time: 20 min
👥 Servings: 4-6
📊 Level: Easy
🥗 8 ingredients
Zesty Lemon Pesto Penne - Ready in 20 Mins - Discover this quick and easy Lemon Pesto Penne recipe, ready in just 20 minutes! A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish

Zesty Lemon Pesto Penne – Ready in 20 Mins

This 20-minute Lemon Pesto Penne is the ultimate weeknight meal for anyone craving vibrant flavor without the fuss. Combining the bright zest of lemon with the herbaceous notes of pesto, this dish is both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. Our recipe elevates simple ingredients like whole wheat penne, baby broccoli, and roasted tomatoes, infusing them with a zesty pesto sauce. You’ll be amazed at how much f
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces whole wheat penne
  • 2 cups baby broccoli
  • 1 cup oven roasted tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup pesto
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese
  • juice of 1/2 lemon
  • fresh basil, cut into ribbons

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne according to package directions. Add the baby broccoli to the pot of boiling water for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking until bright green. Drain and return to the pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the roasted tomatoes and minced garlic to the pan with the pasta and baby broccoli; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the pesto, half of the feta cheese, and the lemon juice.
  4. Toss everything in the pan until well combined. Remove from heat.
  5. Fold in the fresh basil ribbons.
  6. Sprinkle with the remaining feta cheese before serving.

Notes

– For extra flavor, toast your pine nuts before making homemade pesto.
– Ensure your lemon juice is freshly squeezed for the brightest taste.
– Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should retain a slight crispness.
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Pro tips

  • For extra flavor, toast your pine nuts before making homemade pesto.
  • Ensure your lemon juice is freshly squeezed for the brightest taste.
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should retain a slight crispness.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Enjoy this delightful and speedy Lemon Pesto Penne as a satisfying meal any day of the week. Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for an even heartier dish.

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