Whole wheat pasta with Broccoli Pesto
Broccoli contains an abundance of vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system. Additionally, whole-wheat pasta contains plenty of fiber and B vitamins, while the cheese brings protein and bone-strengthening calcium to the plate.
To ensure that as much vitamin C as possible is retained from the broccoli, you should cook it very briefly and in very little water. If you can, steaming the vegetables is a better option.
Preparation steps
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
Rinse basil, shake dry and strip leaves from stems. Cook broccoli in salted boiling water until tender, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving a little cooking water. Rinse. In a blender, puree broccoli with 2-3 tablespoons cooking water, hazelnuts, half the basil, and oil. Mix in cheese and season generously with salt and pepper. If necessary, thin sauce with a little cooking water.
Toss drained pasta with broccoli pesto and serve garnished with remaining basil leaves.