Begin by preparing the broccoli. Fill a small saucepan with 1 inch of water and set a steamer basket inside. Arrange the broccoli florets in the basket, making sure they’re lifted out of the water. Heat the water to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and cover the saucepan. Cook the broccoli until it’s easily pierced with a fork, which should take about 8 minutes. You want it to be tender but still vibrant in color.
While the broccoli is cooking, gather your other ingredients. In a blender, combine the tightly packed basil, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and sea salt. This combination will be the base of your pesto, bringing together all those delightful flavors.
Once the broccoli is ready, carefully transfer it to the blender with the other ingredients. Add the extra-virgin olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients will contribute to the creamy, rich texture and add a savory depth to the pesto.
Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth. You may need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well mixed. This process should take about 60 seconds. You’re looking for a creamy consistency that's easy to spread or mix in with pasta.
Taste your Broccoli Pesto and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it needs a bit more acidity, add a splash of lemon juice. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired thickness.
Once satisfied with the flavor and consistency, transfer the pesto to an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together while it's stored in the fridge. You can enjoy this pesto right away or let it sit for a bit for an even more robust flavor.
Serve the Broccoli Pesto immediately over your favorite pasta, using it as a spread for sandwiches, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. The vibrant green color and fresh flavor will surely impress your family and friends.
Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container. The pesto can last for up to 5 days, and its flavor may deepen over that time.
Before serving leftovers, give it a good stir as the oil may separate. You can also add a splash of water to loosen it up if it's gotten too thick.
