Description
A simple and healthy broccoli pasta recipe perfect for beginners looking for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large broccoli head, trimmed into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces shell pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Transfer the broccoli to a bowl and reserve ½ cup of the broccoli cooking water.
- Prepare the broccoli mash: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Add the cooked broccoli and reserved broccoli water. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is soft enough to mash.
- Cook the pasta: Using the same pot, add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain thoroughly.
- Combine pasta with broccoli mash: Transfer drained pasta to the skillet with the broccoli mash. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until well combined. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to get your greens in.
- Adjust crushed red pepper for your preferred spice level.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a difference in flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American