Smashed Broccoli Pasta

Cut 1 pound of broccoli into small pieces. Boil in salted water for about 5 minutes, until soft. Save the cooking water. In a pan, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil. Add 2 grated garlic cloves and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cook briefly. Add the broccoli and 1 cup of the cooking water. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, then mash or blend until creamy.

In the same broccoli water, cook 12 ounces of short pasta until almost done (1 minute less than package directions). Drain, saving 1 cup of the water. Add pasta to the broccoli sauce. Stir in ½ cup grated parmesan. Add a little pasta water until it looks glossy.

Taste and add salt if needed. Top with fresh basil and shaved parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!