Rotini con Broccoli (Pasta with Broccoli)

Rotini con Broccoli sounds so formal doesn't it? But in actuality, it's one of the simplest recipes to create at home and is the perfect quick meal on those hectic weeknights.

What are my favorite types of pasta?

When shopping for pasta, I generally get only a few varieties to keep as a pantry staple. For starters, macaroni is a given so that I can make macaroni and cheese and macaroni salad. 

Another favorite is Rigatoni; which tastes great with this Pork Ragù over Pasta. 

Then of course there's linguine which the kids love to twirl on their forks. Recipes like this Linguine Positano and Linguine with a Limoncello Asiago Cream Sauce are our favorites. 

But I'd have to say Rotini is the type of pasta I use most often because it's so versatile and can be used in any of the recipes I listed above and then some, like this Rotini con Broccoli. 

How do you make rotini con broccoli?

For this pasta recipe, you'll only need six ingredients: rotini pasta, broccoli, garlic, olive oil, grated cheese and chicken broth. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions, drain and set aside.

Steam the broccoli over a double boiler until it just starts to turn bright green; then remove from heat. If you're short on time, you can also use frozen and defrosted broccoli florets.

Next, heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet, then add the garlic and broccoli. Sauté until the garlic starts to release its' smell; then add the cooked pasta, cheese and chicken broth and mix well.

This Rotini con Broccoli is a delicious, garlicky meal that the entire family will love. Serve with some garlic bread and a tossed salad. ~Enjoy!