Simple Homemade Creamy Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• •12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or preferred type)
• •2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• •1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• •1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts as an alternative)
• •1 clove garlic
• •1/2 cup olive oil
• •1/4 teaspoon salt
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• •Optional: Red chili flakes for garnish
• •Optional: Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot or microwave until tender but still vibrant green (about 3-5 minutes).

3. 3

   In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked broccoli, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creamy consistency.

4. 4

   Transfer the cooked pasta back to the pot. Pour the broccoli pesto over the pasta and toss until evenly coated. If needed, use more reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

5. 5

   Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese, red chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.