Step 1

Heat oil in a large pot over medium. Add garlic and onion - cook slowly for 3 to 4 minutes until onion is translucent and sweet.

Step 2

Turn heat up to medium high, add zucchini and capsicum. Cook 1 1/2 minutes.

Step 3

Add remaining ingredients EXCEPT pasta and broccoli. Stir until tomato paste dissolves.

Step 4

When liquid starts bubbling, lower heat to medium, add pasta and stir. Top with broccoli, push in.

Step 5

Place lid on and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 6

Remove lid. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until pasta is almost cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed by the pasta.

Step 7

Stir through half the cheese (if using). Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8

Top with remaining cheese, put lid on. Leave for 1 minute until cheese is melted and pasta is perfectly cooked.

Step 9

Garnish with parsley and serve immediately. Don't leave leftovers in the pot, residual heat will overcook the pasta so transfer into a serving dish.