Pasta with broccoli and tomato sauce

To prepare a delicious recipe of pasta with broccoli and mushrooms, we start by ensuring we have all the ingredients at hand. The first step is to break the broccoli into small florets, making sure they are evenly sized for even cooking. Then, place them in a pot of boiling salted water, letting them boil for about 3 minutes. This will help retain their vibrant color and crunchy texture. After boiling, drain them and cool them quickly under a stream of cold water to stop the cooking process.

While the broccoli cools, add the pasta to another pot of well-salted water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once ready, drain the pasta, ensuring to reserve a cup of the cooking water, as this will be useful for adjusting the consistency of the sauce.

In a skillet, pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and thinly sliced celery stalk. Sauté them for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion becomes translucent. Now, add the white wine, seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld. Add the canned tomatoes and let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally.

In the last few minutes of cooking, add the sliced garlic and half of the coarsely chopped parsley, stirring to distribute the flavors. Meanwhile, in a larger skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and add the broccoli, along with a little water from the pasta. Add the rest of the chopped parsley and mix everything well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the broccoli is tender but still retains a nice texture.

Once the broccoli is cooked, combine it with the drained pasta, mixing well to combine the ingredients. For the mushrooms, you have the option to sauté them in a grill pan or roast them in the oven, depending on your preference. They will add a savory note to the dish.

Finally, serve the pasta with the tomato sauce, alongside the prepared mushrooms, garnishing with the remaining parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This dish not only looks appetizing but is also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy and delicious meal.