Walnut pesto with broccoli pasta

A fiber-rich broccoli pasta with walnut pesto for delicious, plant-forward everyday nourishment.

Healthy Fats Antioxidant Rich
72%

General Gut Health Match

This score is based on all ingredients included in the food recipe and provides a match score for the general population which is not personalized to your personal profile or gut microbiome test.

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Recipe description

This walnut pesto with broccoli pasta is a simple, satisfying way to add more plant variety to your plate. Broccoli provides fiber that can support comfortable digestion and help nourish beneficial gut bacteria, while walnuts contribute plant-based polyphenols and texture. Together, they create a flavorful, balanced meal that fits easily into everyday eating. Enjoy it as a nourishing lunch or dinner when you want something hearty, green, and naturally rich in gut-friendly ingredients.

October 8, 2026
Walnut pesto with broccoli pasta
Prep 10 min Cook 15 min Easy

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Why this recipe fits you

  • Combines broccoli, walnuts, garlic, basil, and olive oil for plant-based variety.
  • Walnuts, olive oil, and broccoli add fiber, healthy fats, and polyphenol-rich ingredients.
  • A practical, satisfying meal with simple preparation and moderate protein from pasta, walnuts, and Parmesan.

Gut Health Score

🌿 Fiber diversity
68
🍇 Polyphenol density
74
🧬 Diversity support
64
🛡️ Inflammation support
75
🫧 Fermentation support
5
⚖️ Blood sugar stability
62

Ingredients

Broccoli
1 tablespoon
Broccoli
Pasta
2 cup
Pasta
Nut, walnut
6 tablespoon
Nut, walnut
Oil, olive
3 tablespoon
Oil, olive
Garlic
2 clove
Garlic
Basil
2 teaspoon
Basil
Cheese, parmesan
3 tablespoon
Cheese, parmesan
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon
Lemon juice
Salt
0.5 teaspoon
Salt
Black pepper
0.5 teaspoon
Black pepper

Instructions

1

Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

2

Add the broccoli florets to the pasta pot for the final 4 minutes of cooking, then drain, reserving a cup of the cooking water.

3

Meanwhile, toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

4

In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, garlic, basil, parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pulse while slowly adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil until a chunky pesto forms.

5

Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot. Add the walnut pesto and a splash of the reserved cooking water, then toss well over low heat.

6

Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve warm.

Nutrition

650 kcal Calories
18 g Protein
68 g Carbohydrates
7 g Fiber
4 g Sugar
34 g Fat
6 g Saturated fat
1.5 g Salt

FAQ

How many servings does this walnut pesto pasta make?
The recipe makes 2 servings.
How long should the broccoli cook with the pasta?
Add the broccoli during the final 4 minutes of pasta cooking so it stays tender but retains some texture.
Why should I reserve some pasta water?
The starchy water helps loosen the pesto and coat the pasta evenly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use certified gluten-free pasta and check that the other packaged ingredients are suitable.
Can I make this walnut pesto pasta vegan?
Yes. Replace the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Can I make the pesto without walnuts?
Yes. Try pine nuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds, keeping allergies and individual tolerances in mind.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool leftovers promptly, refrigerate them in a covered container, and use them within 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I prepare the walnut pesto in advance?
Yes. Prepare it up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate it in a sealed container. Stir in a little pasta water when combining it with the pasta.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
No. It contains walnuts. For an allergy-friendly version, use seeds only if they are suitable for the individual and avoid cross-contamination.

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