Name: Delicious Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Pasta (Any type, gluten-free for a gluten-free version.); 1 cup Pesto Sauce (Use store-bought vegan pesto for convenience.); 2 cups Broccoli (Fresh or frozen; avoid overcooking.); 1 can White Beans (Canned for creaminess.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Adjust to taste.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

As I fumbled through my fridge on a hectic weeknight, I stumbled upon a bright jar of pesto, a head of broccoli, and a can of white beans—an unassuming trio ready to become dinner. That’s how my 30-Minute Vegan Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans came to life, and let me tell you, this dish is a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a nutritional powerhouse. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, making it the ideal solution for those busy evenings, but it’s also vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone at your table can indulge without any fuss. The marriage of wholesome broccoli, hearty white beans, and sumptuous pesto creates a healthy, comforting meal that tastes incredible. Ever thought you could create magic in just half an hour? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this Pesto Pasta amazing?

Quick and Easy: A mere 30 minutes is all it takes to whip up this delicious meal, perfect for your busy weeknights.

Vibrant Flavors: The fresh, nutty taste of pesto blends beautifully with crisp broccoli and creamy white beans, creating a dish that dances on your palate.

Nutrient-Packed: Bursting with veggies and plant-based protein, it not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body.

Versatile: Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or kale, or even substitute white beans with chickpeas for a protein twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing colors and robust flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends, just like my Spinach Feta Baked Pasta or a fun Monster Bark Candy.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Whip up a batch and store it for leftovers, making your future meals as easy as re-heating a healthy delight.

Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans Ingredients

For the Pasta

Pasta – Choose any type, but gluten-free pasta works great for a gluten-free version.

For the Pesto Sauce

Pesto Sauce – Use store-bought vegan pesto for convenience and delicious flavor.

For the Vegetables

Broccoli – Fresh or frozen is fine; just remember not to overcook for that perfect crunch.

For the Protein

White Beans – Canned beans add creaminess and are an easy way to boost protein in this dish.

For Seasoning

Olive Oil – A drizzle enhances the dish’s richness; adjust to your taste preferences.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavor; feel free to adjust to your liking.

Enjoy crafting your delicious Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of pasta, cooking it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on it until al dente—cooked but with a slight firmness when bitten.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli
In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, gently add the chopped broccoli to the pot with the pasta. The broccoli should turn vibrant green and tender yet still crisp when finished. This step not only infuses the pasta with flavor but also maximizes nutrition, making your Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans a healthful choice.

Step 3: Drain the Pasta and Broccoli
Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked to perfection, reserve a cup of the cooking water to use later for creaminess. Carefully drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, ensuring you don’t lose any precious flavors. Return them to the pot, ready for the next steps to create a delicious meal.

Step 4: Combine with Pesto and Beans
In the same pot, add the drained pasta and broccoli along with the creamy white beans and your chosen pesto sauce. Mix everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring the vibrant pesto envelops every piece of pasta and broccoli. The warmth of the pasta will help the flavors meld beautifully, creating a delightful base.

Step 5: Adjust Creaminess
Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water to your mixture, stirring continuously until you reach your desired creaminess. The starchy water helps to bind everything together while retaining a lovely, silky texture. This step is essential for making your Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans luscious and cohesive.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, drizzle a touch of olive oil over your dish and season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavors. Give it a good mix before serving, ensuring a beautiful presentation. Serve your vibrant Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans immediately and enjoy a delightful and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

How to Store and Freeze Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness.

Reheating: Warm up gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil if needed to regain the creamy texture of your Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to potential texture changes. The creamy pesto sauce may separate upon thawing.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the ingredients in advance and keep them separate; cook just before serving for a quick and delicious dinner option.

Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and let your taste buds guide you to delicious new flavors!

Chickpea Swap: Replace white beans with chickpeas for a protein boost and a delightful texture twist.
Chickpeas add a nutty flavor while enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
Spinach Option: Substitute broccoli with fresh spinach or kale for a different green experience.
This variation brings a softer texture and subtle earthiness that blends nicely with pesto.
Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a punch of tangy sweetness.
Their rich flavor complements the pesto beautifully and transforms the dish into a Mediterranean delight.
Creamy Cashew Alternative: Blend raw cashews with water to create a creamy sauce instead of using pesto.
This vegan twist packs in flavor and a rich, satisfying creaminess that’s hard to resist.
Extra Heat: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that livens up this dish.
Just a pinch will elevate the experience and put some pep in your step!
Nutritional Yeast Boost: Sprinkle in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
It’s a fantastic option for vegans seeking that savory umami taste reminiscent of Parmesan.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or mint along with the pesto for added freshness.
This vibrant addition not only enhances flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, swap traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles.
This lightens up the dish and adds an exciting visual twist, perfect for summer dining!

By incorporating these variations, you can explore endless options with your Pesto Pasta while keeping it simple and satisfying. For those inspired by these flavors, consider also trying my delightful Marry Pasta Vegan for another delectable spin!

What to Serve with Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans

Looking to create a delightful spread that complements this nutritious pasta dish?

Garlic Bread: This toasted delight adds a crunch and a hint of savory garlic, enhancing the overall meal experience. Its buttery richness balances the freshness of the pesto pasta perfectly.
Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens dressed in a light vinaigrette introduces a vibrant tang, cleansing the palate between bites. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra color and crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini deepen the flavor profile of your dinner, providing a warm contrast to the pasta’s freshness. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the nutty pesto.
Lemon Herb Quinoa: This fluffy side brings a subtle herbaceous note while its texture complements the pasta. The quinoa’s nutty flavor enhances the dish’s wholesome feel, making your meal even more satisfying.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a sweet and juicy element, perfect for balancing the savory flavors of the pesto pasta. It’s a refreshing finish to your meal that everyone will adore.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, nutty flavors of the pasta. Its acidity and lightness perfectly bridge the meal’s taste sensations.

Expert Tips for Pesto Pasta

Pasta Perfection: Choose gluten-free pasta if needed, and cook it just until al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, ruining the texture of your Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans.
Broccoli Crunch: Add broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking to keep it bright and crisp. Underestimating the cooking time can result in overcooked vegetables that lose their nutrients.
Creaminess Control: Reserve pasta water and add it gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Too much water can make your dish soupy, so add it slowly.
Flavor Balancing: Adjust the olive oil, salt, and pepper based on your taste. Don’t skip this step, as proper seasoning enhances the flavors of your Pesto Pasta.
Storage Smart: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture; avoid freezing for best results.

Make Ahead Options

These Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and broccoli together up to 24 hours in advance; just cook them as usual and allow them to cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. The combination of pesto and white beans can also be prepped ahead—just mix them and store separately. To maintain quality, avoid combining with the pasta until ready to serve, as this keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply warm the pasta and broccoli, stir in the pesto and beans, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!

Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta for this dish. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, simply choose gluten-free pasta varieties. They work wonderfully and maintain great texture.

How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store your Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness, and remember to give it a gentle stir when reheating!

Can I freeze Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and White Beans?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this dish. The creamy pesto sauce may separate upon thawing, leading to an undesirable texture. Enjoy it fresh or reap the benefits of leftovers within a few days!

How can I make this recipe suitable for allergies?
Great question! To cater for allergies, consider using gluten-free pasta and ensure your pesto is nut-free if necessary. Always check the labels of your ingredients, like canned white beans, to confirm they don’t contain any allergens.

What can I do if my pasta comes out too mushy?
If your pasta ends up mushy, it may be due to overcooking. Always cook it until al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness. For future reference, monitor your cooking time; set a timer based on the package instructions and begin checking for doneness a minute or two early.

How can I adjust the creaminess of the dish?
No problem! If you’d like to refine the creaminess, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time while mixing. This starchy water helps bind everything together, and you can stop adding once you achieve your preferred consistency. Enjoy the process of finding that perfect texture!