Penne Pasta with Garlic and Broccoli

Ingredients

• 400 g grain penne pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons parsley

Instructions

1. 1Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Add whole grain penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. 2While the pasta is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients.
3. 3In a large skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and chili flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. 4Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. 5Drain the cooked pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the broccoli and garlic.
6. 6Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if necessary to help combine and create a light sauce.
7. 7Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, bright flavor.
8. 8Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.