Silky Broccoli Noodles (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 8 oz (225g) of your favorite pasta (try spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
02 - 1 medium broccoli head, broken into small florets
03 - 2 tablespoons plain butter
04 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
05 - 1 cup full-fat cream
06 - ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan
07 - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (skip if you want, it just adds brightness)
09 - Salt and black pepper to your liking
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley for topping
11 - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (leave out if you don't want spice)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Fill a big pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Cook your pasta following the box instructions. Don't forget to save a cup of the starchy water before draining.
02 - As your pasta boils, quickly steam or dunk broccoli florets in hot water for about 2-3 minutes until they turn vibrant green. Drain them and put aside.
03 - Warm up olive oil and butter in a wide pan over medium flame. Toss in your chopped garlic and cook for a minute or two until it smells good.
04 - Add your cream and let it bubble gently. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes till it gets a bit thicker. Mix in your Parmesan until everything's smooth. Throw in some salt and pepper.
05 - Drop your drained pasta and cooked broccoli into the sauce. Gently mix so everything gets coated nicely. If it's too thick, splash in some of that pasta water you saved.
06 - Squeeze in lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you want them. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
07 - Scoop into bowls and sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Want more protein? Throw in some cooked chicken, prawns, or white beans.
02 - Chunky pasta shapes like fusilli or penne grab onto the creamy sauce really well.
03 - Looking for something lighter? Use half cream and half pasta water instead.
04 - Best eaten right away while everything's still warm and saucy.