Save 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 because of its vibrant color and creamy texture that feels indulgent yet healthy.
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 This dish often brings our family together at the dinner table sharing laughter and stories while enjoying a healthy meal.
Notes
Use grilled chicken sautéed tofu or roasted chickpeas for extra protein. Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.
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.
Save This pasta recipe is a perfect balance of nutrition and taste that you will want to make again and again.
Kitchen Help
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Protein-rich varieties like chickpea, lentil-based, or whole wheat pasta enhance nutrition and texture perfectly.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based yogurt and nutritional yeast for dairy ingredients to keep it creamy and vegan-friendly.
- → How do I achieve the creamy green sauce consistency?
Blending peas, spinach, basil, yogurt, and cheese with reserved pasta water creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- → What toppings complement this vibrant pasta?
Lemon zest and toasted pine nuts add brightness and texture, enhancing the fresh green flavors.
- → Is this suitable for a quick meal?
Absolutely—preparation and cooking take about 35 minutes, making it an easy, wholesome option.