Broccoli and Garlic Pasta

Ingredients

Pasta

8 ounces (spaghetti or your choice)

Broccoli

2 cups, cut into florets

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Olive oil

3 tablespoons

Red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden (be careful not to burn it).
3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and bright green. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss once more to combine and serve immediately.