Broccoli Pasta Sauce [Immersion Blender]

This flavorful sauce adds a bright green color (and plenty of health benefits) to any rice, grain, or pasta dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup (160 g) yellow onion, peeled, cut into large chunks
  • ½ cup (70 g) raw pine nuts
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable stock
  • 3 cups (215 g) broccoli, broken into florets
  • ½ lemon, peeled
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

  1. Place a medium-large saucepot on the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow to heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until onions are translucent.
  2. Add pine nuts and sauté for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until pine nuts are lightly toasted. Add broccoli and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Add vegetable stock, lemon, and pepper flake. Bring to a simmer and allow to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Place the Immersion Blender into the middle of the saucepot. Submerge the blender below the surface of the liquid, but above the bottom of the pot.
  4. Start the blender on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed. Move the Immersion Blender around, including up and down, to blend the ingredients for approximately 1 minute or until desired consistency is achieved.

Chef's Notes

  • For an additional pop of flavor, try blending in 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese to this sauce after simmering.