Broccoli Pesto Pasta is a healthy and vibrant dish that combines Broccoli Pesto Pasta is a vibrant and healthy twist on traditional pesto, where roasted broccoli takes center stage. The broccoli is blended with garlic, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, creating a smooth, flavorful pesto sauce. Tossed with pasta, this dish combines the earthy, slightly smoky flavor of roasted broccoli with the creamy richness of the pesto, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
I first made Broccoli Pesto Pasta when I wanted to incorporate more greens into my diet without sacrificing flavor. The roasted broccoli adds a depth of flavor that’s both savory and slightly sweet, and it makes the pesto lighter and healthier than traditional basil pesto. The Parmesan adds a nice salty richness, and the olive oil helps bind everything together for a silky smooth sauce.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can use any type of pasta, from spaghetti to penne, and even add in some extra vegetables like spinach or peas for more texture and flavor. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas would pair wonderfully with this pesto. It’s a quick, delicious, and veggie-packed dish that makes for an easy weeknight meal or a tasty, lighter option for lunch.the earthy flavors of broccoli with the fresh, aromatic taste of pesto. This simple yet delicious recipe features tender pasta coated in a creamy, green pesto sauce made from blended broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a hearty side dish, this pasta brings a nutritious twist to your usual Italian fare.
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Vegetarian meals
- Pasta lovers
- Busy weeknights
- Health-conscious eaters
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Broccoli Pesto Pasta will become your go-to pasta dish:
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with the goodness of broccoli, this dish is both healthy and flavorful.
- Fresh and Vibrant Flavor: The pesto brings a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that elevates the pasta.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy days when you need a meal fast.
- Creamy Yet Light: The broccoli pesto creates a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional cream sauces.
- Vegetarian and Dairy-Free Options: Can easily be made vegetarian or dairy-free by swapping ingredients.
- Kid-Friendly: The broccoli pesto is mild enough for picky eaters, while still being packed with nutrition.
- Customizable Pasta: Works with any type of pasta, from spaghetti to penne or gluten-free options.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The pesto can be made ahead and stored for up to a week in the fridge.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
- Versatile Dish: Can be served as a main course or a side dish to complement other meals.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Pesto:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (any variety, gluten-free if needed)
- Salt for pasta water
Ingredient Highlights
- Broccoli: Provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making the pesto both healthy and flavorful.
- Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats, making the pesto creamy and smooth.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor, though it’s optional for dairy-free versions.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the pesto, giving it a fresh, zesty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli Pesto:
- Cook the Broccoli: In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Toast the Nuts: In a small pan, toast the pine nuts or walnuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Blend the Pesto: In a food processor, combine cooked broccoli, toasted nuts, garlic, Parmesan (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss Pasta and Pesto: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the broccoli pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to help coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Broccoli Pesto Pasta:
- As a Main Course: Serve this pesto pasta as a standalone meal, paired with a simple salad.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
- With Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread for a delicious, comforting meal.
- With Grilled Chicken or Tofu: Add a protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
- For Meal Prep: This pasta is perfect for meal prep, and it stores well in the fridge for a few days.
- As a Side Dish: Serve as a side with grilled steak, fish, or a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- With Extra Veggies: Stir in some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition.
- With a Side of Fresh Fruit: Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Cold Salad: Serve the pasta cold as a refreshing pasta salad for picnics or barbecues.
Additional Tips
- Customize Your Pesto: Add other herbs like basil or mint to give the pesto a unique twist.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Use a High-Speed Blender: A high-speed blender works best for a super-smooth pesto, but a food processor also works well.
- Store the Pesto: Keep leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Adjust Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil or pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach Pesto Pasta: Swap some of the broccoli for spinach for a milder pesto flavor.
- Vegan Option: Omit the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Add a Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a bit of spice.
- Lemon Zest Pesto: Add lemon zest to the pesto for an extra burst of citrus.
- Nut-Free Pesto: Use sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
- Pasta Salad: Serve the pesto pasta cold as a side dish for summer picnics.
- Creamy Pesto: Add a bit of Greek yogurt or coconut cream to the pesto for a richer, creamier texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Special Equipment
- Food Processor or Blender: For blending the pesto ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Large Pot: To cook the pasta.
- Tongs or Pasta Server: To toss the pasta with the pesto evenly.
- Small Pan: To toast the nuts, enhancing their flavor.
- Grater or Zester: To grate Parmesan or zest the lemon for added flavor.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and steam before making the pesto. - How long does this pasta last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the pesto?
Yes, you can freeze the pesto in ice cube trays for individual portions and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. - Can I use other nuts in the pesto?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can be used in place of pine nuts. - Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, the pesto can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, or opt for a gluten-free variety. - Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan and use vegan alternatives for a dairy-free version. - What’s the best way to reheat leftover pasta?
Gently reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pesto. - How do I make the pesto more flavorful?
Add more garlic, lemon juice, or Parmesan to taste for a stronger flavor. - Can I add meat to the pasta?
Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp would pair well with this dish.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Pesto Pasta is a delicious, nutrient-packed twist on traditional pesto. Instead of just basil, this pesto combines vibrant, fresh broccoli with garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to create a creamy, green sauce that’s full of flavor and perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying the rich, savory flavors you love!
The magic of this recipe lies in the broccoli pesto’s creamy texture and its bright, earthy flavor. The broccoli is lightly steamed and blended with garlic, pine nuts (or your favorite nut), and Parmesan cheese, creating a pesto that’s both hearty and fresh. Tossed with al dente pasta, this dish becomes a savory, satisfying meal that can stand on its own or be paired with grilled chicken or seafood.
I’d love to see your Broccoli Pesto Pasta creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your vibrant, veggie-packed dishes. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any fun twists or extra ingredients that made your pasta uniquely yours!