Creamy Pesto Pasta with Roasted Broccoli and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Creamy Pesto Pasta is a delightful and quick meal that brings a burst of fresh flavor to your table, perfect for a busy weeknight in March. The rich, herbaceous pesto is transformed into a luscious cream sauce, elegantly coating your favorite pasta. Tender roasted broccoli adds a pleasant bite and nutritional boost, while the chewy, sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes provide a delightful contrast. It's a comforting yet bright dish that will satisfy your cravings for something both hearty and fresh.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.
- 2Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the remaining pasta and set aside.
- 3While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet or pot over medium-low heat, combine the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until warmed through and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes. Do not boil.
- 4Add the drained pasta, roasted broccoli, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the creamy pesto sauce. Toss to combine thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 5Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent additions. Add them in step 4 along with the pasta and vegetables.
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables! Sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or even mushrooms would work wonderfully in this dish.
Can I make my own pesto from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto tastes fantastic. Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. You can adjust the ingredients to your preference.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
