Linguine with Broccoli, Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts

Linguine with Broccoli, Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts

Ingredients

Serves 6 – 8

  • 1 lb linguine

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)

  • 4 tablespoons pesto

  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

  • 6 tablespoons extra virgin oil

  • 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest (rind)

  • 1/4 cup Italian parsley

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (1 tablespoon salt) to a boil.

  2. Add pasta to the pot of boiling water and boil for 6 – 8 minutes. Pasta should be slightly firm when bitten (al dente). Drain and put back in the pot.

  3. Drizzle linguine with two tablespoons of olive oil, add 2 tablespoons of pesto, lemon rind, and parsley. Toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.

  4. In a large sauté pan set to medium heat, toss pine nuts until golden brown. Remove from heat. In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of  extra virgin olive oil on medium – high heat. Add garlic, broccoli florets, the remaining pesto, and sauté for 5 minutes (stirring occasionally). Add cherry tomatoes and wait for 1 minute. Remove from heat and add to the linguine.

  5. Toss all ingredients together and transfer to a warm serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining  extra virgin olive oil.

  6. Garnish with shavings of parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts.