Recipe: Pasta, Cheese, and Trees Rachael Ray's Mama's Way (using broccoli and ricotta)

PASTA, CHEESE, AND TREES MY MAMA'S WAY

1 pound uncooked penne (corkscrew pasta or medium shells)
1 pound broccoli tops
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, cut up
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions.

Meanwhile, pull apart broccoli into small "trees." Put the broccoli into a pot and add enough water to just cover the tops. Bring the water to a boil and add 4 pinches salt. Cook for 5 minutes once the water comes to a boil. Drain.

Pour olive oil and butter into a deep frying pan and heat over low heat. When the butter melts, add the garlic and cook 5 minutes. Stir in broccoli and cooked pasta. Add ricotta and Parmesan, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

Makes 4 to 6 servings
Source: Rachael Ray in Parents magazine, April 2007