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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy richness of pasta, especially when combined with the vibrant flavors of garlic and the earthiness of roasted broccoli. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings together a symphony of textures and flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for home cooks of all skill levels.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Roasted Broccoli

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta featuring Roasted Broccoli. This simple yet satisfying dish combines al dente pasta, rich cream, and the vibrant flavors of garlic and roasted broccoli for a delightful meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it's easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Enjoy the harmony of textures and flavors, making every bite a celebration of comfort and taste. Ideal for any home cook!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fettuccine)

2 cups broccoli florets

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the broccoli.

    Roast the Broccoli: In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Toss until every floret is well-coated. Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly charred, which brings out its natural sweetness.

      Cook the Pasta: While the broccoli roasts, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which is typically about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water to help adjust the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

        Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously until fragrant — take care not to let it burn. Next, pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer.

          Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss the pasta gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated in the luscious sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper.

              Serve: To plate, serve the creamy pasta topped with a generous portion of roasted broccoli. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a zesting of bright lemon for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy this delightful dish while it’s hot!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4