Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a vibrant twist that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? Dive into the world of "Broccoli and Spinach Pesto Pasta," where the classic Italian dish meets a powerhouse of greens! This quick and easy recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a punch of health benefits, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend treat. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like seawater to properly season the pasta.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and preserve color.
- In a food processor, combine fresh spinach, steamed broccoli, walnuts, half the olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until ingredients are finely chopped.
- Gradually add remaining olive oil while processing to create a smooth, vibrant green pesto sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Drain the pasta and return to the pot. Add the pesto sauce and grated parmesan cheese, stirring to coat evenly. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta works, opt for whole grain or legume-based varieties for added nutrition and fiber.
- Perfectly Season Your Water: Don’t skimp on salt in your boiling water; it’s essential for flavoring the pasta itself.
- Mind the Broccoli: Steaming the broccoli until it’s bright green and tender-crisp ensures it retains its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, like pine nuts or almonds, and add garlic for an extra flavor kick!
- Pasta Water is Your Friend: The reserved pasta water is a magical ingredient that helps adjust the consistency of your pesto, making it creamy without adding extra oil.
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently to maintain the flavors.
- Garnish for Greatness: A sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg
