Irresistible Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta Recipe

Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of spinach and creamy white beans in a vibrant pesto sauce. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with freshness and umami that leaves your taste buds dancing with joy.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a cozy gathering. As soon as they took their first bite, their faces lit up like they had just discovered the secret to happiness. Whether you’re cooking for a fancy dinner or a casual weeknight meal, Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta will make every occasion feel special.

One time, after preparing this dish for my family, my dad exclaimed it was better than any restaurant pasta he had ever tasted. His approving nod was worth all the effort!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type; I often use whole wheat for added nutrition and texture.

• Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green spinach leaves; they bring freshness and nutrients to the dish.

• Canned White Beans: Use cannellini or great northern beans; they add creaminess without overwhelming flavors.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this flavorful staple!

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and promotes silkiness in the pesto.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors; aim for zesty over bottled varieties.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan adds richness; you can swap it with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

• Nuts (Pine Nuts or Walnuts): These contribute crunch and healthy fats; lightly toast them for extra flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

To create this delightful dish, let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while reserving some pasta water.

Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine fresh spinach, white beans, garlic, nuts, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth but slightly chunky for texture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Pesto: Toss the cooked pasta with your freshly made pesto in a large mixing bowl. If it appears too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until reaching desired creaminess.

Add Cheese and Serve: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly until melted into the warm pasta. Serve immediately with extra cheese on top if desired!

Enjoy every mouthful of this delicious Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta as you share it with loved ones! It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating joyful memories around food that lasts long after the dishes are washed!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente while preparing the pesto. Blend spinach and beans with olive oil, garlic, and nuts for a smooth sauce. Mix everything together, adding pasta water as needed for creaminess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe! Swap out spinach for kale or add in sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to turn up the protein!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist and fresh.

Sometimes, I’ll make this pasta dish when friends come over, and they rave about how fresh and tasty it is—proving that healthy can be delicious too!

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach for the pesto?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before blending.

What can I substitute for white beans?

Chickpeas or cannellini beans work wonderfully as alternatives.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta instead; it will still taste great!

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Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta

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• Author: Barbara
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the delightful combination of earthy spinach and creamy white beans in this vibrant pesto pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is quick to prepare and bursts with fresh flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta promises to impress!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz pasta (whole wheat preferred)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
• 1/4 cup nuts (pine nuts or walnuts)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, blend spinach, white beans, garlic, nuts, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth but slightly chunky. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto in a large mixing bowl. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired creaminess is reached.
4. Serve: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Serve immediately with extra cheese on top if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 210g)
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 10mg