Shell Pasta with Broccoli & Garlic
Description
Delight in a dish that perfectly captures the essence of a quick and easy weeknight meal with this delectable Shell Pasta with Broccoli and Garlic recipe, which masterfully combines the nutty, slightly spicy flavor of golden-fried garlic with the vibrant freshness of broccoli. The key to this dish lies in carefully frying the garlic until it reaches that beautiful golden hue—too far past that point, and you risk introducing a bitter taste that detracts from the overall experience. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a nourishing option that fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle.
Recipe Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Pasta Shells |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings (adjustable) |
| Rating | 5 stars |
| Review Count | 3 reviews |
| Calories | 575.7 calories |
| Fat Content | 11.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 10.6 mg |
| Sodium | 518 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 96 g |
| Fiber | 7.7 g |
| Sugar | 4.7 g |
| Protein | 23.4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | 1 head |
| Small shell pasta | 4 cups |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 8 cloves |
| Anchovy fillets | 6 (optional) |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
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Prepare the Broccoli: Start by cutting the broccoli into small florets and chopping the stems into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture throughout the dish.
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Blanch the Broccoli: In a large pot filled with boiling salted water, add the chopped broccoli. Allow it to cook until it reaches a tender-crisp state, which should take approximately 3 minutes. This brief cooking time will help retain the vibrant color and nutrients of the broccoli.
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Ice Bath: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the blanched broccoli to a bowl filled with ice water. This step is crucial as it halts the cooking process, preserving the broccoli’s bright green color and crispness. Once cooled, drain the broccoli and set it aside for later use.
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Cook the Pasta: In the same pot of boiling water used for the broccoli, add the small shell pasta. Cook the pasta until it is tender but firm to the bite, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the brand and thickness of the pasta.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking liquid, as this will help in creating a cohesive sauce later. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot, leaving it off the heat while you prepare the next steps.
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Sauté the Garlic and Anchovies: In a medium non-stick skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and anchovy fillets (if using) to the pan. Fry these ingredients until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, about 2 minutes. Be vigilant, as garlic can quickly become bitter if overcooked.
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Combine Broccoli and Garlic: Gently add the blanched broccoli to the skillet with the garlic and anchovies. Stir and cook until the broccoli is heated through and the garlic has reached a lovely golden color, which should take an additional 2 minutes.
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Toss with Pasta: Transfer the broccoli and garlic mixture to the pot with the pasta. Pour in the reserved cooking liquid and toss everything together to ensure that each shell is well coated with the flavorful mixture.
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Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta into serving bowls or a large serving dish. Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each serving, allowing the warmth of the pasta to melt the cheese slightly and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures that this Shell Pasta with Broccoli and Garlic brings to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family meal, this dish is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Enjoy with a crisp salad or crusty bread to complete your dining experience!
