Broccoli Pesto

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a good palmful of salt (about 1-2 tablespoons depending on how much water you have) and toss in broccoli pieces. Cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from water using a slotted spoon. Keep the water and bring it back to a boil (it’s okay if it still has small broccoli pieces it) and add the pasta of your choice. Cook pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, add broccoli, olive oil, pine nuts, lemon juice, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to a food processor. Blend until smooth. If too thick, use broccoli/pasta water to thin it out a little. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Toss cooked pasta with sauce. Garnish with Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and red pepper flakes, if desired.