Broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta
Experience a nutritious and delicious meal with our Broccoli Pesto Whole-Wheat Pasta recipe. This dish features tender whole-wheat pasta tossed in a vibrant, homemade pesto made with fresh broccoli, basil, and grated Parmesan cheese, all enhanced with a hint of lemon and a dash of black pepper. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner!
- 20 Apr 2025
- Cook time 15 min
- Prep time 10 min
- 2 Servings
- 8 Ingredients
Broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta is a delightful, nutritious dish that combines the robust flavors of fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and zesty lemon juice with the earthy taste of broccoli. This recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, offering a tasty and nutrient-rich alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
- Rinse the basil leaves under cold water.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets into the same pot with the boiling pasta. This will blanch the broccoli while the pasta finishes cooking.
- Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and a dash of salt and black pepper.
- Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. You might need to scrape down the sides of the processor a couple of times to ensure everything is well mixed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli.
- Pour the freshly made basil pesto over the pasta and broccoli mixture.
- Toss everything together until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated with the pesto sauce.
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a few basil leaves, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your healthy, flavorful Broccoli Pesto Whole-Wheat Pasta!
Tips:
- Blanch the broccoli instead of boiling it fully to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. About 2-3 minutes in boiling water should be enough.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help achieve the perfect sauce consistency when mixing the pasta and pesto.
- Toast the pine nuts or almonds before blending with the pesto for an added depth of flavor.
- If the pesto seems too thick, add a little more olive oil or a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- For added protein, consider topping the pasta with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Your broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta is now ready to be enjoyed! This wholesome and delicious meal brings together healthy ingredients in a vibrant, flavorful dish. Serve immediately and relish the blend of textures and tastes that make this pasta truly special.
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 260 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 280kcal | 14% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 16g | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 36g | 10% |
| Fiber 6g | 16% |
| Sugar 2.39g | 2% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 30g | 34% |
| Saturated 7g | 23% |
| Cholesterol 22mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 80ug | 9% |
| Choline 30mg | 6% |
| Vitamin B1 0.23mg | 19% |
| Vitamin B2 0.31mg | 24% |
| Vitamin B3 3.46mg | 22% |
| Vitamin B6 0.33mg | 19% |
| Vitamin B9 100ug | 25% |
| Vitamin B12 0.34ug | 14% |
| Vitamin C 110mg | 119% |
| Vitamin E 0.55mg | 4% |
| Vitamin K 140ug | 118% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 300mg | 23% |
| Copper, Cu 0.29mg | 33% |
| Iron, Fe 2.56mg | 23% |
| Magnesium, Mg 80mg | 20% |
| Phosphorus, P 350mg | 28% |
| Potassium, K 500mg | 15% |
| Selenium, Se 40ug | 75% |
| Sodium, Na 560mg | 37% |
| Zinc, Zn 2.75mg | 25% |
| Water | |
| Water 170g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
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