Broccoli pesto pasta with spicy crumbs

Delicious and Nutritious Broccoli Pesto Pasta with Spicy Crumbs

Are you looking for a healthy and flavorful pasta recipe? Look no further than this delicious Broccoli Pesto Pasta with Spicy Crumbs. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this dish is a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Benefits

1. Broccoli: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients that can support a strong immune system and promote healthy digestion.
2. Pasta: While pasta is often seen as a carb-heavy food, it can actually be a good source of energy and provide essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron.
3. Spicy Crumbs: Adding a kick of spice to your dish can boost metabolism and aid in digestion. Plus, the crumbs add a satisfying crunch to every bite.
4. Pesto: Made with fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, the pesto sauce in this recipe is loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats.

Ingredients

1. 1 head of broccoli
2. 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta
3. 3 tablespoons of olive oil
4. 3 cloves of garlic, minced
5. 1/4 cup of pine nuts
6. 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
7. 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
8. 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
9. Salt and pepper to taste

Processing Steps

1. Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
4. In a food processor, combine the cooked broccoli, pine nuts, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
5. In the same pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat with the pesto sauce.
6. Serve the Broccoli Pesto Pasta with a sprinkle of spicy crumbs for an extra kick and crunch.

Tips and Recommendations

When serving and preparing this dish, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Store any leftover pesto sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Serve with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Don't forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Shopping List

1. Broccoli
2. Whole wheat pasta
3. Olive oil
4. Garlic
5. Pine nuts
6. Fresh basil leaves
7. Grated Parmesan cheese
8. Red pepper flakes
9. Salt and pepper