Broccoli Pesto Pasta


Prep time
30 minutes
Cooking time
15 minutes
Total time
45 minutes


1 pound
broccoli florets
14 ounces
whole wheat penne pasta
1 cup
fresh basil (packed)
1⁄4 cup
extra virgin olive oil
1⁄3 cup
parmesan cheese (grated)


1. Bring large pot of water to boil.
2. Meanwhile, zest the lemon into a food processor and squeeze 2 Tablespoons juice over.
3. Add the broccoli to the boiling water and cook, stirring occasionally, until bright green and just tender, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to the food processor.
4. Return the water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to directions. Reserve 1/4 cup cooking water.
5. Add the basil, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt & pepper. Process until finely chopped. With the machine running, add the oil and then the reserved pasta water.
6. Drain the pasta and return to pot. Toss with broccoli pesto until evenly coated.

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