Recipe: Ham and Broccoli Pasta Toss

HAM AND BROCCOLI PASTA TOSS

1 pound short pasta, such as rotini
1 1/2 pounds fresh broccoli florets or frozen broccoli pieces
6 ounces ham (for about 1 cup pieces)
1 1/2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes
2 cloves fresh garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Bring 3 quarts lightly salted water to a boil in a covered 4 1/2-quart pot. Add pasta and cook until just tender, following package directions. Three minutes before pasta is done, add broccoli to the boiling water.

Meanwhile, cut ham into bite-size pieces and put it in a 3-quart or larger bowl. Cut tomatoes in half and add to the bowl. Mince garlic and add to bowl. Add the basil. Stir to mix well.

When pasta and broccoli are done, drain in a colander, shaking to remove as much water as possible. Add pasta and broccoli to bowl and sprinkle parmesan and drizzle olive oil over pasta. Toss until cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Start to finish: 20 minutes

Servings: 6
Source: Cheap. Fast. Good! by Beverly Mills and Alicia Ross