This dish is my version of "healthy" mac n'cheese (if there is such a thing!). I must admit, when it comes to pasta, I generally go for "the real deal." I like whole wheat bread but never really considered whole wheat pasta. For some pasta dishes, I don't know if I ever will. However for this one, the whole wheat pasta makes for quite a tasty pairing with the homeade cheese sauce and broccoli florets. Moreover, it packs quite the healthy punch.
To make "healthy" mac n' cheese with broccoli, you need the following:
-1/2 pound (1/2 box) whole wheat penne pasta
-1 & 1/2 cups broccoli florets (no stems)
-1 & 1/3 cups milk
-2 Tbsp butter
-1 Tbsp flour
-12 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
-salt & pepper to taste
-1 tsp cinnamon
Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Add pinch of salt. Once boiling, pour in pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and add flour and milk. Pour in grated cheese, stir, and reduce heat to low to allow thickening. Add generous amount of salt & pepper and then, (my secret ingredient!) cinnamon.
When pasta/broccoli is done, drain and return to pot. Pour cheese sauce in and mix well. Add a sprig of parsley for garnish (thanks, Em!) and serve immediately. Serves 3.
