Whole-Family Pasta with Broccoli and Cauliflower

Many children, especially picky eaters, love pasta loaded with plain butter--a dish that clearly earns low marks on the health scale. This great alternative adds fiber and protein with beans, which kids actually love!

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 387 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 12 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
• ⅔ cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water 2 minutes less than directed on package. Drain.

Step 2

Meanwhile, cook garlic in oil in a large lidded pot over medium heat until golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Add broccoli and cauliflower and cook 1 minute. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt, and cook, covered, 3 minutes. Add broth, butter, beans, pepper, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and cook until beans are warm and sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add pasta and cook, stirring, until heated through, about 1 minute. Sprinkle with cheese.