Lunch: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Try a twist on traditional pesto with this recipe, made with broccoli and mint.

This recipe includes fertility superfoods such as:

Broccoli, Lemon

Health and fertility benefits of Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Broccoli is one of the non-starchy vegetables that has a very low glycemic index (GI), which is beneficial for reducing blood sugar levels. Broccoli is also a source of DIM (Diindolymethane). Diindolymethane is very effective in reducing the testosterone levels in the body, an action that would automatically curb male dominant features and regulate the estrogen levels in the system. Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to.

Ingredients

1 lemon
1/3 c. sliced almonds
12 oz. broccoli florets
1 box whole-grain fusilli or rotini pasta
1 c. packed fresh mint leaves
1/4 c. olive oil
salt
Pepper
1 oz. Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat 6-quart covered saucepot of water to boiling on high.
Meanwhile, from lemon, with vegetable peeler, remove 6 strips of peel, avoiding white pith. Very thinly slice lengthwise. Halve lemon; squeeze 2 tablespoons juice. In microwave-safe small bowl, microwave almonds on High 1 minute or until toasted.
Add broccoli to boiling water. Cook 5 minutes or until just tender. With slotted spoon, transfer broccoli to food processor with knife blade attached.
Add pasta to same pot. Cook as label directs; reserve 1/4 cup cooking water.
While pasta is cooking, to food processor, add mint, oil, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and freshly ground black pepper. Puree. With machine running, add reserved water. Drain pasta and return to pot. Add broccoli pesto, lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Divide pasta among bowls. Top with Parmesan, lemon peel, and almonds.

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