Broccoli and Cheese Baked Pasta | Atkins

   

I'm a sucker for pretty vegetables. Baby aubergines, striped beetroot - they will end up in my trolley. So, when I saw these gorgeous broccoli stems, I knew I had to have them - but had no idea what to do with them.

Broccoli is one of my favourite vegetables - and is normally enjoyed steamed with a little garlic. An instantly healthy side dish to any meal. However, that's hardly a 'recipe' to share. Adding to the gloomy skies and cold days, a bowl of steaming pasta is sure to cure (almost) any bad day.

It is a meat-free dish - and no less delicious for being so - however, if you need a little extra protein, I think strips of chicken or bacon would go particularly well. 

Ingredients:
4 cups cooked pasta - I used Atkins penne
6 tbsp cream cheese - your choice of flavour
500ml milk
100ml cream
2 cups grated cheese (I used gouda and mozzarella)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
200g broccoli, steamed until just tender
salt and pepper to taste
To top:
1/4/ cup breadcrumbs (made with Atkins bread)
1/2 cup cheese

Method:
Place the cream cheese in a pot on the stove, on a medium-high heat. Add the garlic - whisk until smooth. Add the milk and cream and allow to come to the boil. Add the grated cheese and reduce to a simmer, whisking until the cheese is melted. 

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees C. Add the steamed broccoli and pasta to your sauce and stir through until well combined. Place in an oven proof dish and top with the breadcrumbs and cheese. Bake for approximately 10 minutes - or until the cheese has melted and the top has browned. Serve immediately.

 

While I love a good omelette for breakfast, some mornings demand something a little more on-the-go. Atkins' Strawberry Yoghurt Shake is a dairy protein shake, packed with fibre - everything you need to start your morning. Keep a few in the fridge for those mornings when you're simply rushing out the door. 

This post is sponsored by Atkins SA.