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Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Light and Healthy Broccoli Pasta is a simple and flavorful dish that combines tender broccoli with al dente pasta and a touch of Parmesan. With garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil, it’s a healthy, light meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

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 flakes

Salt and black pepper, to taste

12 ounces shell pasta (or your preferred pasta)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Broccoli:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Once cooked, transfer the broccoli to a bowl and reserve ½ cup of the broccoli cooking water to use later.
  2. Prepare the Broccoli Mash:
    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, then stir in the cooked broccoli and reserved broccoli water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli becomes soft enough to mash easily with a spoon.
  3. Cook the Pasta:
    Using the same pot with the broccoli water, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly once cooked.
  4. Combine Pasta with Broccoli Mash:
    Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with the broccoli mash. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir everything together until well combined. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it appears too thick.
  5. Season and Serve:
    Taste the pasta dish and adjust with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Notes

  • Customizations: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • For Extra Creaminess: Stir in a little cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water if needed.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Pasta, Light Meals
  • Method: Boiling, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://tastywhisper.com/light-and-healthy-broccoli-pasta/