Broccoli Pesto

Introducing a delightful twist on a classic favorite – Broccoli Pesto! This vibrant and flavorful sauce provides a fresh and healthy spin on traditional pesto, offering a wonderful way to sneak some extra veggies into your meals. Perfect for pasta dishes, as a dip, or a spread, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

**Broccoli Pesto**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Blanch the Broccoli:** Begin by blanching the broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Quickly transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps preserve the vibrant green color.

2. **Toast the Pine Nuts:** In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until they are lightly golden and aromatic. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pine nuts which will contribute to the overall taste of the pesto.

3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a food processor, add the blanched broccoli, basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse the mixture a few times to break down the ingredients.

4. **Add Olive Oil:** With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture comes together into a smooth and creamy pesto. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure that everything is well incorporated.

5. **Season to Taste:** Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil if needed. For a thinner consistency, you can add a bit of water as well.

6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Your homemade broccoli pesto is now ready to be enjoyed! Toss it with your favorite pasta, spread it on crostini, use it as a pizza sauce, or mix it into roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Broccoli Pesto is a versatile and nutritious condiment that can elevate a wide range of dishes with its bright flavor and vibrant color. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet while adding a delicious twist to your meals. Make a batch of this delicious pesto and watch it become a household favorite in no time!