Fettuccini with broccoli is quick and easy but also nutritious, thanks to the broccoli. The passive cooking method ensures that the pasta is perfectly cooked every time.
Fettuccini with Broccoli using the Passive Cooking Method
A while ago, I saw something in my news feed from Barilla about the Passive Cooking Method. When I looked into it, I realized I had been using the method for certain foods for quite some time. I used it for beans, chicken, Myriad Deviled Eggs, and Boston Baked Beans. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg; Passive Cooking has many more benefits.
But what about steaming some vegetables and taking advantage of the steaming, hot water the fettuccini is in? Brocolli is one of my favorite vegetables and is perfect for steaming.
The Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli, a staple in this recipe, is more than just a green vegetable—it’s a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli is known for its numerous health benefits. It supports the immune system, promotes healthy digestion, and may help reduce inflammation. Additionally, broccoli contains compounds that support heart health and may have cancer-preventing properties. When paired with pasta, broccoli adds a satisfying crunch and a dose of vibrant green that makes your meal as visually appealing as it is nutritious.
What is Passive Cooking?
Basically, you boil water, put the food in the boiling water, let it boil covered for 2 minutes, then take it off the heat and let it sit in that hot water until it’s cooked. The energy savings is about 80%. It’s an old method of cooking food. The best part I have found is that things don’t overcook, so no more overcooked pasta. It’s the method used in this recipe.
No Waste Fettuccini with Broccoli
I try to have the least waste in my kitchen. In this case, all the broccoli, including the stem, is used, and the water is used after the food is cooked.
Brocolli and your Dog
Did you know that broccoli is also good for your dog? That woody part of the stem that usually goes in the trash makes an excellent treat for Fido. If your dog is small, cut the stem into bite-size pieces; otherwise, let them chew on it like they would a bone.
Unsalted Pasta and Brocolli Water
Don’t throw the water down the drain if you have houseplants or a garden. Plants love the nutrients in that water. The only caveat is the water must NOT be salted. Salt will kill your plants. You can salt the pasta or vegetables after they have been cooked or add salt to your sauce.
Fettuccini with Broccoli Recipe
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Fettuccini with Broccoli
Equipment
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Ingredients
- 1 pound Fettuccini
- 2 cups Broccoli, florets and coins
- 2 liters water, unsalted
— For Serving —
- 1 tablespoon Butter, or more as needed
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoon Parmesan
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- There is no need for the pasta insert in this recipe, only the pot itself and the steamer.
- 1 pound FettucciniPut the pasta in the bottom of the stock pot.
- 2 cups BroccoliCut the broccoli into florets. Trim the stem, cutting off the woody part. Slice the stem into coins. Put the broccoli in the steamer.
- 2 liters waterFill the electric kettle with 2 liters of water. Turn it on to boiling.
- When the water is boiling, pour it over the pasta and bring it to a boil.
- When the water is boiling again. put the steamer on top and close the lid.
- Boil the pasta and broccoli for 4 minutes.
- Turn the heat off and let the pot sit for 10 minutes.
- The pasta water, since it was not salted, and has nutrients that you can give to your plants when water has cooled, so don’t drain it. Simply lift the pasta out of the pan and put it in a serving bowl.
- 1 tablespoon Butter, 1/2 teaspoon SaltPut the salt and butter on top of the pasta then toss it well in the butter making sure everything is well-coated. If you need more butter, or olive oil, feel free to add it to your mouth-feel.
- 2 tablespoon Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon Black pepperTop with cheese and crack pepper over the top. Toss and add more cheese. Enjoy!
