Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Cavatelli and Broccoli



I think I need to detox. I ate way too much bacon this summer and now I have this thirst that I can't seem to quench. So I decided, no more bacon for a while and I need to eat some veggies. I decided to make cavatelli and broccoli which is SO EASY. I usually steam my broccoli but for this dish I just saute it with garlic and oil and toss with the hot pasta. It's delicious! I wish I had more leftovers! You can make this with spinach, broccoli rabe or any green veggie you like. Make it spicy if you like by adding lots of crushed red pepper.

I always find cavatelli in awkward amounts. I just used two bags. It was either a little more or a little less than a pound. I can't remember, don't worry if it's off a little.

Cavatelli with Broccoli

1 lb. frozen cavatelli
3 small heads of broccoli, cleaned and cut into small pieces
4 cloves of garlic, peeled & cracked (smashed with the side of a knife)
crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
salt and pepper, to taste
extra virgin olive oil

Heat a liberal amount of oil in a large saute pan that has a cover, it should be enough to cover the bottom. Add garlic and crushed red pepper and cook for about 1 minute. Add broccoli and toss in garlic infused oil. Let it cook for a few minutes to absorb the flavors add more oil if needed. Season with salt and pepper. Add a couple of tablespoons of water and cover to finish cooking. Meanwhile, cook cavatelli in a large pot of salted water. When pasta is done reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain. Toss with broccoli and add 1/4 cup of water and more if needed to bring it all together (and so the pasta isn't just swimming in oil.)





10 comments:

Lynda said...

It looks simple and delicious, a perfect kind of meal! Yum!

The Fancy Lady said...

omg that looks so good the place where my dads g/f makes that with sausage and chicken it pretty much the most amazing thing ever

Mary said...

I know what you mean. There are times I just CRAVE veggies and I know it's because I haven't been eating balanced. My body calls for balance! Broccoli is one of my favs too. Looks yummy!

Shan said...

anything topped off with crushed red pepper is delicious! (what an italian trait! ) :)

teresa said...

this looks so fresh adn pretty!

Dionne said...

Oooh broccoli and pasta. I love them together! Thanks for the recipe!

Danielle said...

it looks really good...and perfect for your retreat from bacon! LOL

regina di roma said...

I love this dish. Sometimes here in Italy I make it with Broccoli Rape instead, or the Roman broccoli (pointy peaks) - all wonderful.

Miss High Heels said...

This is one of my favourite pasta meals. Only problem is that I always put bacon with it. Not really what you need to hear! Good luck with your healthy eating.

Steve said...

add some thick cut ham (1" cubs) and tons of parm.... AMAZING!!!