Save to Pinterest A vibrant, protein-packed pasta dish featuring green peas and spinach blended into a silky sauce, creating a fresh, nutrient-rich meal with a magical green hue.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite for its delightful taste and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or lentil-based, or whole wheat pasta)
- Green Sauce: 200 g frozen green peas 100 g baby spinach leaves 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 small shallot, finely chopped 30 g fresh basil leaves 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 60 ml low-sodium vegetable broth (or water) 80 g Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for vegan) 30 g grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan) ½ tsp fine sea salt ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Topping: Zest of 1 lemon 20 g toasted pine nuts (optional) Extra Parmesan or nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook the protein pasta according to package instructions until al dente Reserve 100 ml of the pasta cooking water then drain the pasta and set aside
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the shallot and garlic sauté for 2 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent
- Step 3:
- Add the frozen peas and spinach to the skillet Cook, stirring, for 2 3 minutes until peas are heated through and spinach is wilted
- Step 4:
- Transfer the pea-spinach mixture to a blender Add basil, vegetable broth, Greek yogurt, Parmesan, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and remaining olive oil Blend until smooth and creamy Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed
- Step 5:
- Return the drained pasta to the pot Pour the green sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat Warm through over low heat if needed
- Step 6:
- Serve in bowls Top with lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, and extra Parmesan or nutritional yeast
Save to Pinterest This dish often brings everyone together for a wholesome dinner filled with laughter and good conversation.
Required Tools
Large pot, Skillet, Blender, Colander, Zester
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (Greek yogurt, Parmesan), Gluten (unless using gluten-free pasta), Tree nuts (pine nuts, optional). Use dairy-free alternatives and gluten-free pasta as needed
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, Total Fat 12 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 24 g
Save to Pinterest This protein pasta is both easy and rewarding to make, perfect for any day of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Protein-rich pasta such as chickpea, lentil-based, or whole wheat pasta pairs well, offering firm texture and complementing the creamy sauce.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan version that retains the creamy texture and flavor.
- → How do I achieve the sauce's smooth texture?
Blending sautéed peas, spinach, garlic, basil, yogurt, and cheese creates a silky sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- → What toppings enhance the flavor and texture?
Lemon zest adds brightness while toasted pine nuts contribute a crunchy texture; extra parmesan or nutritional yeast adds depth.
- → How long does preparation and cooking take?
Preparation requires about 15 minutes, with cooking taking roughly 20 minutes, summing to a total time of 35 minutes.