Vegan Broccoli Pesto Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Plant-Based Lovers

Vegan Broccoli Pesto Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients in a way that is both satisfying and nourishing. As someone who has always been passionate about plant-based cooking, I find that this recipe beautifully showcases the versatility of broccoli, transforming it into a creamy, rich pesto that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta. The history of pesto dates back to Italy, where traditional recipes often include basil and pine nuts, but this vegan twist honors the spirit of the original while making it accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.

People love Vegan Broccoli Pesto Pasta for its incredible taste and texture. The nuttiness of the walnuts combined with the freshness of the broccoli creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating. Plus, it’s a quick and convenient meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner. Join me in exploring this delicious recipe that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) whole grain pasta (spaghetti or penne works well)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts (or pine nuts)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick

Preparing the Broccoli

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This will be used to cook the pasta and blanch the broccoli. 2. While the water is heating up, rinse the broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. 3. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp. 4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the broccoli from the pot and transfer it to a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and help retain the vibrant color. 5. After a few minutes in the ice water, drain the broccoli and set it aside. You can also keep the pot of water on the stove for cooking the pasta.

Cooking the Pasta

6. In the same pot of boiling water, add the whole grain pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. 7. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep some of the starch to help the sauce adhere better. 8. Return the drained pasta to the pot and set it aside while you prepare the pesto.

Making the Vegan Broccoli Pesto

9. In a food processor, combine the blanched broccoli, fresh basil leaves, nutritional yeast, raw walnuts, and minced garlic. 10. Pulse the mixture a few times until everything is roughly chopped. 11. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. This will help emulsify the pesto and create a creamy texture. 12. Stop the processor and scrape down the sides as needed. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 13. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Blend again to combine.

Assembling the Dish

14. Pour the broccoli pesto over the cooked pasta in the pot. 15. Toss the pasta and pesto together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired creaminess. 16. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference. 17. Once everything is well combined, remove the pot from the heat.

Serving Suggestions

18. Serve the vegan broccoli pesto pasta warm, garnished with additional nutritional yeast or chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor. 19. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil on top for a beautiful presentation. 20. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover pesto.

Storage Tips

21. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 22. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed. 23. You can also enjoy this dish cold as a pasta salad by letting it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving. This vegan broccoli pesto pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of broccoli and basil creates a vibrant and flavorful sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a comforting meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Vegan Broccoli Pesto Pasta is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The vibrant green pesto, made from fresh broccoli, garlic, and nuts, brings a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes, making it a delightful option for both vegans and non-vegans alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this pasta with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or a crisp green salad to add a refreshing contrast. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options, to suit your dietary preferences. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Vegan Broccoli Pesto Pasta a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag your culinary creations on social media! I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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