Broccoli Leek Pasta

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This pasta dish is seriously SO good! I went back for seconds and thirds and ate to the point where my stomach felt like it might explode. I love cooking with leeks because they have a sweeter, more delicate, and I think more sophisticated flavor than onions. In this recipe, I’ve also included anchovies, which brings out a delicious umami flavor (plus they are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids). Finally, the brown rice pasta adds a nuttiness to the overall dish and went perfectly (in my opinion) with the sauce. This pasta is a one dish dinner, perfect for a busy weeknight! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!


Ingredients:

(serves 2, generously)

  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets

  • 8 ounces of pasta of your choice (I use brown rice pasta)

  • ¾ cup vegetable broth

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 4 leeks, white and light green parts only, washed, trimmed, and thinly sliced

  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 2 mashed anchovies (omit if vegetarian)

  • Juice from ½ a lemon

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Pinch of red chili flakes

  • For serving: grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

  • Steam the broccoli florets until easy pierced with a fork (about 5 minutes) and then set aside.

  • Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to save about ½ cup of pasta water once pasta is cooked.

  • In a large pan, over medium heat, sautee the leeks in the olive oil until softened (about 5-6 minutes). Add in garlic and red chili flakes and cook (stirring frequently) until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).

  • Add in anchovies and give it all a good stir, and then add the broccoli, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and stir every so often for about 10 minutes or until liquid is reduced, working to mash the broccoli with your wooden spoon

  • If needed, add pasta water to the broccoli leek sauce one tablespoon at a time until your sauce reaches a consistency of your liking 

  • Turn off the heat, taste sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. Squeeze juice from half a lemon, stir to combine, and then add your cooked pasta to the sautee pan to combine. Serve with some grated parmesan.

  • Optional: Feel free to blend your sauce if you prefer a smoother consistency.

Health Benefits of Leeks:

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  • Leeks are an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports healthy development of red and white blood cells and also vision health.

  • They are high in prebiotics, which feeds beneficial bacteria in our gut and improves nutrient absorption.

  • Leeks provide our bodies with vitamin K, which regulates blood flow and is essential for bone health.

  • They also supply us with folate, which supports a healthy pregnancy.

Sources and additional reading: