Pasta & Broccoli Basil Pesto

5m
Prep Time

10-15m
Cook Time

15m
Ready In

Recipe: #21459

October 24, 2015

Categories: Sauce, Savory Sauces, Side Dishes, Broccoli, Italian, 5-Minute Prep, Heart Healthy, Low Calorie, Italian Dinner, more

recipe by:
Kchurchill5

"This is such a nice light dish; and, perfect for that 'Meatless Monday' dish. It isn't necessary; but, I do suggest that you use fresh pasta in this dish if possible. It is extremely quick cooking; which makes this a great weeknight dinner. This makes 2 nice servings; or, 3-4 side servings. I usually double this recipe when I have friends."

Original is 3 servings

Metric US

I've Tried It

Nutritional

Serving Size: 1 (436.7 g)
Calories 479.3
Total Fat - 16.7 g
Saturated Fat - 2.7 g
Cholesterol - 68.2 mg
Sodium - 257.4 mg
Total Carbohydrate - 68.9 g
Dietary Fiber - 9.7 g
Sugars - 5.7 g
Protein - 22.2 g
Calcium - 267.8 mg
Iron - 5.9 mg
Vitamin C - 153.7 mg
Thiamin - 0.8 mg

Step 1

Broccoli ... I like to use mostly the florettes for the pesto; however, save those stems; they are great as broccoli slaw; or in a soup.

Step 2

First you need to blanch the broccoli. Bring a pot of salted water up to a boil; then, cook the broccoli for 1-2 minutes, until crisp but tender. Then, transfer to a bowl of ice water - just for a minute or two to cool. This also helps retain the bright green color. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain and dry.

Step 3

Pesto ... Add all the ingredients, but just a pinch of salt to the food processor; and pulse until combined. Taste and reseason with salt and pepper if necessary. Pulse a couple more times until you get a smooth texture.

Step 4

Pasta ... Cook the pasta according to package directions in plenty of salted water. Drain, reserving some of the pasta water; and, return the pasta to the pot. Remember, fresh pasta is very quick cooking; and, I really think it is best in this dish - however, it is not necessary.

Step 5

Finish and Serve ... Add the pesto, sun dried tomatoes, scallions, and lemon zest to the cooked pasta; and toss until combined. Serve in a large bowl or on a platter; and, garnish with plenty of cheese shavings and fresh basil. Finally, squeeze the remaining lemon half over the top. It's healthy, flavorful; and, makes a great 'Meatless Monday' dinner. It also makes a great side dish as well. ENJOY!