Pesto pasta is always so good, but this recipe will be your new favorite recipe as it has a SPIN on it – SPINach! It also has lemon and heavy cream in it to create the best flavor ever. This pesto pasta is even good cold so if you don’t have access to a microwave when you eat your leftover, you can eat it as is.
Spinach Pesto Pasta
This pasta is a fresh and comforting dish that has tons of vibrant flavors. It is a classic pesto recipe with a couple of twists. It has hidden spinach in it! It also has lemon and heavy cream in it to create the perfect sauce.
Equipment
- 1 food processor
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (I used penne)
- ½ cup pine nuts + some for topping
- ½ cup olive oil
- 6 oz spinach
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 5 tbsp fresh chopped basil (or paste)
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup pasta water
- 1 cup grated parmesan and/or romano cheese blend (I used a mix)
Instructions
- Boil your pasta of choice, or use penne like I did here. Make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water once done.
- In a food processor, add pine nuts and olive oil. Blend until completely combined into a paste. Gradually add in spinach and blend until smooth.
- In a skillet, drizzle some olive oil and medium low heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add in spinach pine nut mixture to pan. Add in the chopped basil and mix well. Stir in heavy cream.
- Add in your pasta, and mix so it is fully coated. Follow this with your 1/2 cup pasta water and all of your cheese.
- You can serve this with grilled chicken, tomatoes, pine nuts, or parmesan on top. Enjoy!