I haven't tried this yet, but just saw this idea for basil in a magazine the other day. I thought it looked good.
Heat covered 5 quart pot of water to boiling on high. Add 1 lb broccoli florets. Cook 5 minutes or until crisp tender. With slotted spoon, transfer to food processor. Add 1 cup fresh basil leaves, ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper. Puree until smooth. With processor running, ad ½ cup olive oil. Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Makes 2 ½ cups. (enough to coat 1 lb of whole wheat penne.).