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Smashed Broccoli Penne Recipe

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4.1 from 85 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Smashed Broccoli Penne is a flavorful, aglio e olio style pasta dish featuring tender broccoli florets smashed into a garlicky olive oil sauce. This vibrant and nutritious recipe is a clever way to incorporate extra veggies into your meal, making it appealing even to kids who typically shy away from greens. The parmesan adds a creamy, savory finish, making it a simple yet delicious weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Liquids and Cheese

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook Broccoli: Boil a pot of salted water. When the water is at a rolling boil, add the broccoli florets and cook for 5 minutes until they turn bright green and become softened but not mushy. Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon or strainer and set aside.
  2. Cook Penne: Immediately add the penne pasta to the same boiling water and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Smash Broccoli in Pan: Add the cooked broccoli to the garlic oil in the pan along with the salt and black pepper. Use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to smash the broccoli into smaller pieces, creating a chunky sauce base.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the pan with the smashed broccoli. Pour in the reserved pasta water and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything together over low heat until the pasta is well coated and the cheese melts into the sauce.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Be careful not to overcook the broccoli; it should remain vibrant and slightly firm for best texture and flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta water as it helps emulsify the sauce and keep the dish moist.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for kids.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the freshness of the sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://cookinginspirations.com/smashed-broccoli-penne-recipe/