Spinach Pesto With Pasta
A vibrant spinach pesto with fresh herbs and cheeses, perfect for pasta lovers seeking a flavorful, vegetarian dish packed with greens and nutty notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Puree the spinach, parsley, Parmesan, Romano, olive oil, almonds, melted butter, garlic, salt, and oil in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Cook pasta separately according to package instructions, then toss with the spinach pesto before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. For a creamier pesto, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta. If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain it well. This pesto can also be a delightful addition to Penne Ala Caprese for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Toss the spinach pesto with your favorite pasta shapes, or use it as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Soft Breadsticks, making for a complete meal. For a vibrant finish, add cherry tomatoes or roasted vegetables on top, and serve with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing. When ready to use, give it a good stir and, if needed, add a bit of olive oil to loosen it up. Reheat pasta separately before mixing with the pesto.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Pesto With Pasta contains roughly 2206 calories, with 30g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 209g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1455mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze spinach pesto?
Yes, spinach pesto freezes well! Portion it into ice cube trays or small containers, and once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave on low power until softened.
What pasta works best with this pesto?
Any pasta works well with spinach pesto, but shorter shapes like fusilli or rotini are ideal, as they hold onto the sauce better. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. For a more unique approach, try using zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
How can I make the pesto spicier?
To add some heat, consider blending in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño with the other ingredients. You can also serve the finished dish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).