8 oz. penne pasta
2 tbs. pine nuts
1 red bell pepper, cleaned and cut into strips
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbs. olive oil
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 large bunch broccoli, cut into small florets
1 can (10.5 oz.) white beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup shredded fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Except for cooking the pasta, this recipe is done entirely in the microwave! I was pleasantly surprised with the results, as I use my microwave mainly for reheating foods.
Delicious- and so easy!!
Cook the pasta as the label on the box directs (use 1/2 of a 1 lb. box). Set aside.
In a 1 cup glass measure, cook the pine nuts on HIGH in the microwave oven for 3 to 4 minutes, until golden, stirring twice during cooking. Set aside.
In a large (2.5 to 3 quart) covered casserole, in the microwave oven, cook the red pepper strips, garlic, olive oil, and crushed red pepper, covered, on HIGH 3 to 4 minutes until the pepper strips are tender-crisp; stir once during cooking. Stir in the broccoli and cook covered on HIGH 7 to 9 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp, stirring halfway through cooking. Stir in the beans and cook, covered for another minute. Add the salt and toss with the penne pasta, basil and parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with pine nuts. Makes 6 servings- 6 points each.