Pasta with Cauliflower Recipe Guide
Pasta with Cauliflower
Equipment
- Equipment Needed
- Large pot, sauté pan, colander
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower chopped into florets
- 200 g pasta such as orecchiette, penne, or rigatoni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs preferably toasted in olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Method:
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Begin by cutting the cauliflower into small florets. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reserving a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Cook the Cauliflower: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the cauliflower florets, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly golden.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the cauliflower. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta and Cauliflower: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the pan with the cauliflower. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce. Toss to combine.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the toasted breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss again and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot!
- Variations and Tips:
- Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
- Add Protein: For extra protein, you can add cooked chicken or sausage, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
- Tomato Twist: For a variation, try adding a few spoonfuls of tomato sauce or cherry tomatoes to add some brightness to the dish.
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Zio Leo here!
Cooking and sharing great food brings people together in the most authentic way, in my own personal experience, and with a lifelong passion for Italian cuisine, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and stories that celebrate the rich flavors of Italy. From classic dishes to modern twists, have my guides inspired you to bring a little bit of Italy into your kitchen? Please, be honest with me here. Leave your comments down below. I’d love to hear from real people like you. Read more about me here! =>>