Rotini with Pesto, Broccoli, and White Beans

Steps

1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rotini and cook according to the package directions.

2. Add the broccoli: About 3 minutes before the pasta is finished cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.

3. Warm the beans: Place a large colander in the sink and pour in the drained beans. Before draining the pasta, ladle out about 1 cup of the hot pasta water and set it aside. Then drain the pasta and broccoli over the beans — the heat from the water and pasta will warm the beans.

4. Combine the ingredients: Transfer the pasta, broccoli, and beans to a large bowl. Add the pesto and stir gently to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

5. Serve: Divide into bowls and serve hot.

   Note: This quick, one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights. The technique of draining the pasta over the beans warms them without extra dishes. Substitute other vegetables — such as asparagus, peas, cauliflower, or chopped kale — for an easy variation.

Final Step

Tell people about this deliciously simple meal and help everyone eat healthy.