If you’re looking for a healthy yet indulgent pasta dish, this Creamy Spinach Basil Pesto Pasta is the perfect recipe for you. Made with a luscious homemade pesto sauce, this dish is packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice, making every bite burst with flavor. The combination of spinach and basil creates a beautifully vibrant green sauce that not only looks stunning but also delivers plenty of antioxidants and nutrients.
This pasta is quick, easy, and ideal for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal when entertaining guests. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an authentic Italian experience.
This Recipe is:
- Rich & Creamy: The homemade pesto sauce is silky, flavorful, and coats the pasta perfectly.
- Nutritious & Healthy: Loaded with vitamins from fresh basil and spinach.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes for a fuss-free dinner.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A perfect meatless option that is still satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Spinach Basil Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts as a substitute)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red chili flakes (optional for spice)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and toss it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Basil Pesto
- In a food processor or blender, add spinach, basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic.
- Pulse a few times to break down the ingredients.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice, blending again until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Pesto
- In a large skillet over low heat, toss the drained pasta with the pesto sauce.
- Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky texture.
- Stir until the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta
✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and spinach will make a huge difference in flavor.
✔ Don’t Overheat the Pesto: Heat can dull the bright green color, so mix the pasta off the heat.
✔ Make It Vegan: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
✔ Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Leave a Reply