Single-Pan Cauliflower Pasta with Breadcrumbs

Are you searching for a quick and hearty weeknight meal? Well, this is the right place! The single-pan cauliflower pasta is one of those healthy dishes that’s simple enough to make because you can pre-soak the pasta and then cook everything in one pan, so the cleanup is faster.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized cauliflower chopped into small florets (7-8 cups)
• 2 cups macaroni or ditalini orecchiette
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable stock (cold)
• 3 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 diced onion (medium)
• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 2 cups finely grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp. all-natural lemon juice
• Salt-and-pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes and finely chopped parsley to finish

Method:

1. Soak your preferred small pasta together with the veggie stock in a medium-sized bowl. While preparing the other, stir occasionally to make sure the noodles don’t stick together and soak equally.
2. Add olive oil to a big frying pan over medium heat to prepare the breadcrumbs. Mix the garlic, salt, and pepper with the breadcrumbs. 
3. Stir everything at the same time and cook for two minutes until aromatic and golden. Before you add the Parmesan, remove the large pan from the heat, then stir to mix, and then set it aside.
4. Use the same frying pan over medium heat to mix olive oil, onion, garlic, and a single pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for approximately three to four minutes and stir often until the onions become translucent.
5. Add the chopped cauliflower florets together with another pinch of salt-and-pepper and stir everything. For 20-25 minutes, cook the cauliflower until golden and tender. Once the cauliflower breaks down slightly, crush the florets using the rear portion of a wooden spoon.
6. Wait until the cauliflower is cooked through, then add the soaked pasta and veggie stock to that pan. Stir constantly until the mixture is simmered, and then cook for five to six minutes until you achieve the desired noodle consistency. If the pasta requires more cooking time or the pan is about to look too dry, add a one-fourth cup of water.
7. Turn off the heat, and then add the butter, Parmesan, and lemon juice. Stir together to produce a glossy-looking sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
8. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes, and parsley.