Imagine perfectly cooked al dente bowtie pasta coated in a vibrant, homemade pesto sauce that bursts with the freshness of basil, the creaminess of parmesan, and the nuttiness of pine nuts. But that’s not all! We’ve added tender-crisp broccoli florets to elevate the dish’s wholesomeness, and a delightful crunch of chopped pistachios for that extra pizzazz. Grab your apron and let’s get going!

Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. While the processor is running, gradually add the extra-virgin olive oil until a smooth and creamy pesto sauce forms.
In a large skillet, blanch the broccoli florets in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet over medium heat. Add the homemade pesto sauce and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
Add the blanched broccoli and chopped pistachios to the pasta, gently stirring to incorporate all the delicious elements. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Voila! Your delightful bowtie pasta with homemade pesto, broccoli, and pistachios is ready to be served.

Notes

For a creamier pesto, add a splash of pasta cooking water while blending the ingredients. Feel free to also toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet for an extra depth of flavor. Garnish your masterpiece with additional grated parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of crusty garlic bread and a crisp green salad with a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a great option for vegetarian guests or as a delightful accompaniment to grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Enjoy!

Chef’s tip: If you blanch your basil leaves before processing them, your pesto will remain a vibrant green whereas if you omit the blanching, the pesto will turn a green/brown color.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.