Bring a pot of water to a boil and drop in broccoli to cook for 60 to 90 seconds.

Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the broccoli from cooking any further.

Add broccoli florets, basil, garlic, slivered almonds and zest and juice of a lemon to the bowl of a food processor. Run on low for 45 seconds, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.

Add in parmesan cheese (if using), salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Run on low while drizzling olive oil into the top of the food processor until desired consistency is reached.

Taste, adjust seasonings and serve immediately. Store any leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.