Protein Packed Broccoli Pesto Pasta
Try this Protein Packed Broccoli Pesto Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Protein Packed Broccoli Pesto Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cashews
- juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 3 cloves garlic peeled and minced
- 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh bail tightly packed
- 1 large clove of garlic peeled and minced
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- ample black pepper freshly ground
- 5 tablespoons hemp or olive oil (both are equally as nice)
- 250 (1 packet) of organic chickpea fusilli pasta (i us
- 1 medium broccoli
- 1 medium leek white part only
- Carbohydrate 11.3518931244936 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.57226937685967 g
- Fiber 4.01653751452356 g
- Protein 7.34130437515416 g
- Saturated Fat 0.629013562422046 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (34g)
- Sodium 294.549749999524 mg
- Sugar 7.33535560997003 g
- Trans Fat 0.622760500476428 g
- Calories 102 calories
Step-by-step
- Wash the basil leaves and let dry or use a salad spinner.
- Place all ingredients in a food processor and blitz till almost smooth.
- Transfer to a large pasta bowl. Note: this recipe will yield about 1 cup pesto.
- Cook the pasta as per packet instructions.
- Prep vegetables: wash and dry broccoli, remove stalk, and cut the florets into very small pieces.
- Finely slice the white part of the leek.
- Peel and mince the garlic.
- Thinly slice the sun dried tomatoes (if using semidried, wash excess oil off them and pat dry first).
- Heat oil in fry pan, medium heat.
- Cook leek till softened and add to the pasta bowl.
- Add a little more oil and cook broccoli florets till just soft, adding garlic toward the end.
- Transfer to pasta bowl.
- Once pasta has cooked (about 10 minutes) drain and rinse very quickly under cold water.
- Add to pasta bowl with the sliced sun dried tomatoes and toss everything to coat.
- Serve with fresh basil leaves!
Protein Packed Broccoli Pesto Pasta: A Busy Woman's Delight
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, healthy, and satisfying, and this Protein Packed Broccoli Pesto Pasta recipe fits the bill perfectly. I'm always on the lookout for dishes that are both nutritious and easy to whip up after a long day at the office, and this one has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation. The vibrant green pesto, packed with broccoli and chickpeas, is a flavour explosion, and the whole dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare – a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights!
Forget complicated recipes with a million ingredients and obscure techniques. This pasta dish is straightforward, utilizing ingredients readily available at most supermarkets. The combination of pesto, broccoli, and chickpea pasta creates a delicious, well-rounded meal that's high in protein and fiber, keeping me feeling full and energized throughout the evening. I love the versatility of this recipe; feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or add your favorite vegetables. Sometimes I throw in some sauteed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients. The possibilities are endless!
The Beauty of Simplicity
What truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. No fancy equipment or culinary skills are required. A simple food processor is all you need to create the vibrant pesto. The recipe itself is easily adaptable. If you're not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, simply omit them or substitute them with another ingredient you enjoy. Similarly, the type of pasta is completely customizable; you can use any shape or type of pasta that you prefer. I often find myself using whatever pasta I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious.
A Healthy and Delicious Meal
Beyond its speed and ease, the nutritional benefits of this dish are significant. The chickpea pasta provides a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Broccoli, a nutritional powerhouse, adds essential vitamins and minerals. And the pesto, bursting with fresh basil, provides a flavorful punch while adding antioxidants. This isn't just a quick weeknight meal; it's a healthy and delicious way to nourish your body without sacrificing your valuable time.
More Than Just a Meal
This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about creating a moment of peace amidst the chaos of daily life. The act of preparing a meal, even a simple one, can be a form of self-care, a way to unwind and connect with oneself. The aroma of fresh basil and garlic filling my kitchen is therapeutic, and the satisfaction of creating a nourishing meal for my family is immeasurable. It's about more than just eating; it's about nourishing the soul.
Making it Your Own
Don't be afraid to experiment with this recipe and make it your own. Add some chili flakes for a spicy kick, or incorporate different herbs and nuts to create your own unique flavor profile. Perhaps you prefer a different type of pasta, or want to add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; it's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
This Protein Packed Broccoli Pesto Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the fact that healthy, delicious, and convenient meals don’t have to be complicated. It's a recipe that embodies the balance I strive for in my life – a blend of healthy eating, simplicity, and the joy of nourishing my family.
