Salt-As-You-Go Pasta With Broccolini, Garlic, and Parmesan

Bring 6 quarts water to a boil in a large pot; season with salt. The water should taste like ocean water, so keep adding salt until it tastes very, very saline (you should use around 1/4 cup).

Meanwhile, heat 1/4 cup oil in a large skillet over medium. Add shallots, garlic, and 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes; season lightly with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shallots are translucent, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Remove florets from broccolini and cut into bite-size pieces. Slice stems into 1/2" pieces. Add to boiling water. Cook 1 minute, then, using a spider or slotted spoon, transfer to reserved skillet.