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Jerry's Recipes

Easy

Pasta with Tomatoes and Broccoli

IDEAL VEGETARIAN LUNCH OR LIGHT DINNER with its bright appearance, delightful herb flavor, and easy preparation. Tips:

  • Pasta: Select a shape that the sauce will coat nicely such as orecchiette, campanelle, small shells, etc.
  • Broccoli: Avoid overcooking. Cooked florets should be bright green and tender-crisp (not mushy).
  • Tomatoes: Use either diced (easiest) or whole canned tomatoes (break up whole tomatoes).
  • Seafood option: A great addition are marble-size bay scallops or small shrimp. Just fry them in Step 1 (below) for about 3 minutes, then set aside and add back to the skillet when you stir in the pasta (in Step 4). Use up to 1/2 pound (8 oz) of seafood.
Takes about 30 minutes. Serves 4.

SHOPPING LIST:
Jerry's Recipes
  • Pasta
  • Scallions or mild onion
  • Garlic
  • Broccoli
  • Rosemary
  • Oregano
  • Canned tomatoes
  • Parsley and/or basil
  • Parmesan cheese

Prepare pasta


 
    14 to 16 oz pasta
Cook ALMOST to al dente in at least 4 quarts boiling, salted water
(follow package directions)


Prepare vegetables and sauce
Skillet
1
In large skillet over medium heat, cook while stirring frequently for 1-2 minutes (until garlic is fragrant but not browned)
  • 4 tablespoons (1/8 pound) unsalted butter
  • 3-4 scallions, chopped (or small mild onion)
  • 1 clove garlic, chopped or minced
  • Optional: Seafood (see above)

2
Add and cook gently, covered, until broccoli is crisp-tender (5-6 minutes)
  • 1 medium head broccol (cut to 1" pieces and smaller)
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste

3
Stir in and cook 1-2 minutes
  • 1 14-oz can tomatoes, with juice (see above)
  • Palmful fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: several fresh basil leaves, shredded

4
Add and stir in gently
  • Cooked, drained pasta (plus seafood, if used)
  • Additional pasta water as needed to avoid a dry sauce

   Garnish servings:

  
 
  • Fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Ground black pepper, as desired


rainbow

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