To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 8 ounces of pasta (any type you prefer)
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Place a medium-sized pot of salted water on high heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add in the pasta and cook according to the instructions on the package. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Step 2: Prep the Broccoli
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the broccoli. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Trim off any excess stems and cut the larger florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This will help ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
In a separate pot, bring some water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets to a steamer basket or sieve and place it over the boiling water. Cover the pot and let the broccoli steam for about 5 minutes or until it becomes tender. Steaming the broccoli preserves its vibrant color and nutrients.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden brown, which should take about a minute or two. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the garlic. Toss the pasta and garlic together until well coated. Then, add the steamed broccoli florets and gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 6: Season and Serve
To enhance the flavors, season the pasta and broccoli mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final toss to evenly distribute the seasoning. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra kick of flavor.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Transfer the pasta with broccoli to a serving dish or individual plates and serve while still warm. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
This pasta dish with broccoli is not only tasty and filling, but it also provides a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The combination of pasta and broccoli creates a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, from veggie lovers to pasta enthusiasts. So why not give this recipe a try and savor the deliciousness it offers?