Broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta

Broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta features a vibrant blend of fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice, enhanced by earthy broccoli. This nutritious dish serves as a healthy alternative to traditional pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2.50 cups broccoli
6 oz whole-wheat pasta
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups basil leaves
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper

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.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
- Rinse the basil leaves under cold water.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.

2. Cook the Pasta:
- 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).

3. Blanch the Broccoli:
- 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.

4. Drain and Cool:
- 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.

5. Make the Pesto:
- 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.

6. Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Pesto:
- 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.

7. Season to Taste:
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.

8. Serve:
- 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.

9. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your healthy, flavorful Broccoli Pesto Whole-Wheat Pasta!

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.

Broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the whole-wheat pasta?

Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes until al dente.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and pesto ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What can I use as a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute grated Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or use a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor.

How can I tell if the broccoli is cooked properly when blanching?

The broccoli should be bright green and tender-crisp after about 3 minutes of blanching. Avoid overcooking to preserve its vibrant color and texture.

What type of whole-wheat pasta should I use?

You can use any type of whole-wheat pasta, including spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, depending on your preference.

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.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 2.39g
Fat 30g

Broccoli pesto whole-wheat pasta