Broccoli Walnut Pesto Pasta
This pasta features a rich pesto made from steamed broccoli, toasted walnuts, garlic, and Parmesan, tossed with your favorite pasta for a healthy yet indulgent dish. The broccoli adds creaminess and nutrients, while walnuts bring a deep, earthy flavor.
⏳ Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pesto:
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
½ cup walnuts, toasted
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 large garlic clove (or 2 for stronger flavor)
½ cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more if needed)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or whole wheat)
Reserved pasta cooking water (about ½ cup)
Optional Garnishes:
Extra Parmesan
Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Crushed walnuts
ℹ️ Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
In the last 3–4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water.
Drain pasta and broccoli together.
3. Make the Pesto
In a food processor, combine cooked broccoli, toasted walnuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pulse while streaming in olive oil until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Adjust thickness with a splash of pasta water if desired.
4. Assemble the Dish
Return pasta to the pot.
Add the broccoli walnut pesto and toss to coat, adding small amounts of reserved pasta water until the sauce clings beautifully.
5. Serve
Plate and garnish with extra Parmesan, walnuts, and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes & Tips
Extra Creaminess: Blend in 2–3 tbsp ricotta or Greek yogurt for a lighter, creamy texture.
Vegan Option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and add a pinch of salt.
Make Ahead: Pesto can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for 2 months.
⁉️ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use raw broccoli instead of cooked?
A: Yes — but steaming or boiling briefly makes it softer, creamier, and mellows the flavor.
Q: Can I swap walnuts for other nuts?
A: Yes — almonds, cashews, or pine nuts work well.
✅ Nutritional Information
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 300mg