Freaky Greek Pasta

Jessica Seinfeld has a wonderful cook book and website, full of healthy and EASY recipes. Healthy and easy are what I'm all about! This meal is fantastic! It has a bit of a Greek kick to it, but don't let that scare you off. It's delicious!

Freaky Greek Pasta

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves 4

Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne
- 1 large bunch broccoli, cut into florets (about 5 cups)
- 8 ounces Feta cheese, crumbled (2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt to taste (optional - I didn't use any salt and it was excellent)

Directions:
Start boiling your water. Cook pasta 3 minutes less than the package directions call for, then add the broccoli to the pot and cook 3 minutes more, until the broccoli is tender and the pasta is al dente.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the Feta, lemon zest, oregano, red pepper and black pepper (12 turns on pepper mill.) Place the almonds in a small skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until toasted and fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. When the pasta and broccoli are done cooking, drain them, add immediately to the large bowl and toss. Drizzle with oil, add the toasted almonds and toss again. Salt to taste.