Spinach Pesto Pasta

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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8

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!
Keyword fresh, pasta, pesto, spinach