Comfort Food Pasta

As a kid I grew up eating a lot of pasta, it was probably (and sometimes still is!) my favourite food. Nowadays the thought of twirling strands of spaghetti onto my fork is not as appealing as it once was, but on those days where I  just need a little comforting I tend to crave pasta.
And believe it or not, there is scientific reason behind this.

Carbohydrate rich foods like pasta enhance tryptophan levels which in turn increases serotonin levels. Serotonin is the chemical that makes us feel good! It is also released during exercise so you could always go do that instead.....

But anyway, here is the ultimate comfort food for the health conscious (just because its comfort food doesn't mean it can't be a little healthy) -

Ingredients:
Serves 2

1/8 pack of angel hair pasta
1 can of Tomato Bisque Soup (I used Amy's Organic Brand)
1/2 red onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, chopped finely
1/4 bunch of flat leaf parsley (yes for all you foodies that can tell, in the pic I used cilantro because I didn't have any parsley- it still tasted good though!!)
1/2 cup of cheese
2 cups of broccoli florets

Directions:
1.) Cook the pasta according to the directions on the packet (feel free to substitute gluten free pastas)
2.) Saute the onions and garlic in a pan in a little rice bran oil until just cooked and then add the broccoli and the can of bisque soup.
3.) Simmer the sauce for 15-25 min until it thickens slightly.
4.) Toss in the angel hair pasta and coat with the sauce and add the cheese
5.) Top with fresh parsley
6.) Serve!

This is my kind of comfort food, it still contains a good source of veggies (this dish probably equates to 3 nutritional serves of vegetables!) and its quick and easy to prepare.

Comfort food is different for everyone but just remember, cooking it with love and purpose is what is really going to make it extra special!