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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.

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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.

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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)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. 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

1. In a food processor or blender, add spinach, basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic.
2. Pulse a few times to break down the ingredients.
3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice, blending again until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Pesto

1. In a large skillet over low heat, toss the drained pasta with the pesto sauce.
2. Add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky texture.
3. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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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.