Need a new meal for Meatless Mondays? Try this easy broccoli and pasta dish. It's ready in about 15 minutes, it's economical and best of all, it's tasty.
12 oz. uncooked pasta like elbow macaroni
6 1/2 c. fresh broccoli florets, stems removed
1 c. pasta cooking water
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 c. grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, good quality
2 T. olive oil, divided
kosher salt, to taste
crushed red pepper flakes, optional
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bring a large pot of well salted water to a boil. When water is boiling, add pasta and broccoli together; cook al dente according to pasta instructions. Do not overcook pasta. When pasta is almost done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water; set aside; drain.
Return pot to the stove; set to high heat; add 1 T. olive oil; add the garlic when hot; cook until golden, reduce to low heat; add pasta/broccoli back into the pot.
Stir well; add remaining olive oil, cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired; add salt and pepper to taste; mix well; break up any large pieces of broccoli. Add about 1/2 c. reserved pasta water; stir well, adding more reserved pasta water if needed.
Serve with more grated cheese on the side.
6 servings.