Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans
A hearty yet light Mediterranean pasta dish tossed with vibrant basil pesto, tender broccoli florets, and creamy white beans. It’s a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and greens — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a wholesome lunch.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or orecchiette)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained & rinsed
½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ lemon (juice + zest)
¼ cup grated Parmesan (or pecorino, optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta & broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions.
In the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets to the boiling water.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare beans
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the white beans, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed.
3. Combine
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with beans.
Stir in pesto, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Toss until everything is coated and glossy.
4. Serve
Top with grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and toasted nuts if using.
Serve warm.
Notes & Tips
For extra greens, add spinach or arugula when tossing with pesto.
If vegan, use dairy-free pesto and skip cheese.
Chickpeas can be used instead of white beans.
Great served warm or at room temperature as a pasta salad.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a drizzle of olive oil before reheating.
Q: What pasta works best?
Short shapes like penne, fusilli, or orecchiette hold pesto and beans well.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Just add it to the boiling pasta water a few minutes before draining.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~430
Protein: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 56 g
Fiber: 9 g
Fat: 15 g