Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta Recipe

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I came across this Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta recipe while planning to host a New Year’s party. It is one of the best pastas made up of broccoli, spinach, and herbs. Well, I must say that adding pasta to the menu was one of the best things I could have ever added.

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta Feature Image

The best part of the recipe is that it is simple to make and tastes good. Ever since I added this dish to the menu, it has been a superhit and everyone’s favorite. This is the recipe that I love recreating with different flavors and ingredients, and trust me, it won’t disappoint.

This no-fuss, easy-to-make pasta can be made in 30 minutes using simple, readily available kitchen staples. As soon as I add pasta to the table, you won’t believe how quickly it gets empty.

Try this recipe yourself, and let people enjoy the tasty pasta by showering you with compliments. I have shared the recipe details to make it easier for you.

Equipment Required

Stockpot: I use it to boil the broccoli in a traditional way for the recipe.
Spoon: An easy way to transfer boiled broccoli to the bowl.
Food Processor: It is the most convenient way to chop broccoli for the recipe.
Spatula: I use it to stir the ingredients in the stockpot for proper resting.

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta Ingredients & Substitutions

Note: The ingredients in the recipe can serve up to 4 to 6 people. You can adjust the quantity as per your gathering.

1 Pound Uncooked Pasta
4 Cups Water
2½ Cups Broccoli Florets
1 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves: You can also add cilantro if you do not have basil.
1 Cup Parmesan Cheese: Grana Padano can be substituted for Parmesan cheese in the recipe.
⅓ Cup Roasted Walnuts: You can use walnuts and cashews if the ingredients referred to are not available.
1 Large Lemon: You can add some apple cider vinegar if lemons are not available.
½ Teaspoon Salt
½ Teaspoon Black Pepper: Italian seasoning can be added to the recipe for similar results
½ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil: You can also use Walnut oil or avocado oil in the recipe.

Preparation And Cooking Time

Preparation Time	Cooking Time	Total Time
10 Minutes	15 Minutes	25 Minutes

How To Make Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta at Home

Step 1

Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and stir.

Step 2

Cook for some time till they turn soft.

Step 3

Add pasta to the stockpot and boil until tender.

Step 4

Transfer the boiled broccoli to the food processor. Add walnuts, basil, lemon zest, cheese, oil, salt, and pepper to the food processor.

Step 5

Blend it to make a smooth paste. Add some of the boiling pasta water to the blender if needed.

Step 6

Drain the pasta of its water and keep it aside. Add the broccoli paste to the pasta and toss to mix well.

Step 7

Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top. Enjoy!

Expert Tips That I Recommend

Cook pasta until it is somewhat tender. Avoid overcooking, as it turns mushy when sauces are added.
To accentuate the flavors in pasta, add a pinch of salt; it’s a great way to enhance them.
If pesto sauce does not mix well with pasta, remember to add some of the pasta’s starchy water. It emulsifies the paste and blends in.
Make sure the broccoli is properly boiled and tender; if it does not cook well, it can remain chewy.
When the pasta is ready, keep it aside and let the flavors settle.

FAQs About Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Why does my pesto taste bitter?

Avoid over-blending basil and adding too much lemon zest. Taste the paste as you blend it.

Should I blanch broccoli before blending?

Yes, blanch it for 2 minutes; it keeps its green color and removes raw bitterness while maintaining freshness.

Should I blanch broccoli before blending?

If you open the oven door during baking, your coffee cake may sink in the center. This happens because all the hot air escapes from the oven, sinking the cake in the center. So, however tempting it may be, I recommend not opening the oven door until your cake is completely baked.

Can I add raw broccoli to pesto?

You may, but the taste will be sharper and grassier. But if you blanch it, it gives a smoother, milder flavour.

How can I avoid overcooking the pasta?

Cook until it is firm to the bite. It keeps pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Who does not want to eat pasta every day? But sadly, you can’t, as it is not a healthy choice. The pasta is low in fiber and protein and should be consumed in moderation. The Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta is a perfect choice for your comforting evenings once or twice a week.

Calories	728 kcal
Carbohydrates	14 g
Protein	22 g
Fat	68 g
Saturated Fat	16 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	6 g
Monounsaturated Fat	43 g
Cholesterol	34 mg
Sodium	2004 mg
Potassium	487 mg
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	4 g
Vitamin A	1159 IU
Vitamin C	130 mg
Calcium	662 mg
Iron	2 mg

If you are on any kind of diet or following any restrictions, you do not have to worry. This recipe is easily customizable and can be prepared by tweaking some ingredients.

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta Is A Bright And Flavorful Dish Made With Tender Pasta Tossed In A Zesty Lemon And Broccoli Pesto Sauce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

Recipe Variations For Different Diets

Gluten-Free: You can use gluten-free pasta to make it if that’s your dietary preference.
High-protein Version: You can add tofu or boiled eggs to boost the pasta’s protein content.

Storing And Reheating This Recipe

Storing

Refrigeration: Let the pasta cool completely, then add it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2 to 4 days.
Freezing: Do not freeze it, as the pasta and spinach will get mushy and spoil.

Reheating

Stovetop: Keep the pasta in a covered skillet with 2 tablespoons of water over low heat, warming for 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Microwave: You need to transfer the microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat for 30-second intervals for 1-2 minutes.
Oven: Keep it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 180°C for 10-15 minutes, until hot.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a great choice for evening gatherings. The pasta pairs best with Grilled Chicken. It is also best with Garlic Bread or Potato Salad, which is a great addition to pasta.

Printable Version

More Recipes That You Can Try

BLT Pasta Salad Recipe — BLT Pasta Salad

Summer Vegetable Pasta — BLT Pasta Salad

Conclusion

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta is a perfect balance of freshness and comfort. The tangy flavor and vibrant green color make the pasta stand out and look different. This creamy bowl of pasta is what you will need on slow evenings. This versatile pasta pairs well with a variety of side dishes and can be customized to your requirements.

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta Recipe

Equipment Required

Lemon Broccoli Pesto Pasta Ingredients & Substitutions

Preparation And Cooking Time