Ingredients

For the Broccoli Pesto:

• 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 garlic clove
• ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
• Salt for boiling water
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (for thinning sauce)
• Extra parmesan for topping
• Optional: chili flakes or toasted nuts for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Make the Broccoli Pesto
   In a food processor, combine steamed broccoli, basil, garlic, nuts, parmesan, and lemon juice. Pulse until finely blended.
   With the motor running, slowly pour in olive oil. Blend until smooth. Add salt & pepper to taste.
3. Mix It All Together
   Toss hot pasta with the pesto. Add a splash of reserved pasta water until it coats the pasta smoothly.
4. Serve
   Plate with extra parmesan, chili flakes, or nuts. Serve warm!