Combine all ingredients together:

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and

 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets

Cook until tender, then remove with a slotted spoon.

Add into the broccoli water, and cook untile al dente,

 8 ounces penne pasta (dry weight)

Set aside 1/2 Cup of the broccoli/pasta water.

In a large skillet, add and saute' until fragrant, about 1 minute.

 4 tablespoons olive oil
 3 cloves garlic, chopped
 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes, or to taste

Add to the skillet the cooked,

 brocolli,
 drained, pasta

Add into the skillet with broccoli and pasta and stir until the cheese melts and sauce thickens:

 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
 the 1/2 cup reserved broccoli/pasta water
 salt and pepper to taste


Serve warm.