Cavatelli and broccoli is the perfect vegetarian pasta dish alternative. The cavatlelli, small pasta shells that are very similar to hot dog buns, perfectly synchronizes with the broccoli and its crisp texture. Like many Italian pastas, it’s not too difficult to prepare, especially if you’re not trying to make the noodles yourself. Be sure not to remove the bite from the noodles by making them too mushy. The same goes for the broccoli. The crispness and sharpness of the ingredients is what makes this dish truly fun to eat.
Health Benefits
Broccoli is one of those vegetables that you just can’t argue against. It has too many health benefits to not eat. It helps to prevent various cancers, reduces cholesterol levels, improves our digestive system, helps to detoxify the body, and even maximizes vitamin and mineral uptake. Eating broccoli also helps to prevent certain allergic reactions, protects the skin from receiving damage, prevents birth defects, helps to stop inflammation, improves vision, and improves ocular health.
Nutrition
Per Serving:
317 calories
10.3 g fat
47.6 g carbohydrates
10.2 g protein
1 mg cholesterol
234 mg sodium
Ingredients
heads fresh broccoli – cut into florets: 3
cup olive oil: 1/2
cloves garlic, minced: 3
cavatelli pasta: 1 1/2 lb
tsp salt: 1
tsp crushed red pepper flakes: 1
tbsp grated Parmesan cheese: 2
How To Make Cavatelli and Broccoli
- In a large pot of boiling water, blanch broccoli for about 5 minutes.
- Drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sautéthe garlic until lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the broccoli.
- Sauté while stirring occasionally.
- Cook cavatelli in a large pot of boiling and salted water for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente.
- Drain, and place in a large serving bowl.
- Toss with broccoli and season with salt and hot pepper flakes.
- Serve with parmesan cheese and enjoy!
Trivia
‘Al dente’ is used to describe pasta when it is cooked to perfection.