For all you vegetarian pasta lovers out there, this penne with broccoli pesto dish is one for the books! And it takes less than 30 minutes to make.

SERVES 4  // PREP TIME 10 min // COOK TIME 10 min

INGREDIENTS 
500 g penne
1 head broccoli
1 cup fresh basil leaves, stalks included
1 garlic clove
Zest of 1 lemon  
¼ cup lemon juice
¼ cup finely grated Parmesan 
¼ cup olive oil

METHOD
1. Cook the penne in a pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water and drain pasta.
2. Break the broccoli head into smaller pieces and steam for about 5 minutes until softened. Immediately transfer to iced water to stop the cooking process and retain a bright green colour.
3. Place the broccoli in a food processor with the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. Season to taste.
4. Toss the broccoli pesto with the drained pasta, thinning the sauce with a bit of pasta water if needed. Serve with extra Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired. 

Recipes & styling: Marizka du Toit
Photography: Jurie Senekal

This tomato & bacon pasta is impossible not to like. It’s easy-to-make, affordable and will definitely be your go-to meal from now on!