Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe

The Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that feels both fresh and indulgently satisfying. Bursting with nutrient-rich greens like spinach, kale, and basil, this pesto pasta is a celebration of nature’s best flavors all mingling with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy, garlicky sauce. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight supper or impressing friends with something healthy yet delicious, this recipe delivers bold color, texture, and taste in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this dish plays an essential role, making it not only wholesome but also perfectly balanced in flavors and textures. The simplicity of the components means you’re working with freshness and taste at their peak, and each one adds something special that makes this Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe pop.

• 8 ounces Dried Pasta: Choose your favorite type to set the foundation for the dish’s comforting texture.
• 2 cups Fresh Spinach: Rinse and dry thoroughly to keep the pesto bright and smooth.
• 1 cup Chopped Kale: Remove tough stems and massage leaves slightly for tender green intensity.
• 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves: Use only leaves to maintain a fragrant, herbaceous punch without bitterness.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Peel and roughly chop for that unmistakable savory depth.
• 1/4 cup Nuts (Pine Nuts or Walnuts): Lightly toast to elevate their nuttiness and add crunch.
• 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzle while blending for luscious creaminess and body.
• 1/3 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is key for sharp, savory richness.
• Salt: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground adds subtle heat and aromatic lift.

How to Make Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; this is important as it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Add your chosen pasta and cook it until al dente according to package directions. Al dente ensures the pasta has the perfect bounce and bite, which complements the creamy pesto beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Greens

While the pasta cooks, rinse and dry the spinach, kale, and basil thoroughly. Dry greens make a smoother pesto and prevent watery sauce, so take this step seriously—it’s the secret to a vibrant and fresh-tasting pesto.

Step 3: Toast the Nuts

Toast pine nuts or walnuts over medium heat in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes until just golden and fragrant. This step unlocks their natural oils and flavors, giving your pesto a toasty richness that’s absolutely delightful.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Food Processor

Add the toasted nuts, garlic, spinach, kale, and basil leaves to your food processor. Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped but not completely pureed. This texture lets the pesto retain a bit of character and visually vibrant green chunks.

Step 5: Emulsify with Olive Oil

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. This slow addition emulsifies the pesto, turning it into a creamy, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every pasta strand.

Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan until fully incorporated. The salty, nutty cheese binds the flavors together and adds subtle umami that truly transforms this Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe into a showstopper.

Step 7: Drain Pasta and Reserve Water

Drain the pasta but keep 1 cup of the cooking water. That starchy pasta water is a magical tool to loosen and marry the pesto sauce with your pasta, keeping everything silky and cohesive.

Step 8: Toss Pasta with Pesto

Return pasta to the pot and pour over the pesto sauce. Toss gently to coat every bite, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency. This step ensures the pasta is dressed evenly without being clumpy or dry.

Step 9: Season and Serve

Finish by seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the pesto at its freshest, fullest burst of flavors and vibrant green color. Your Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe is now ready to wow!

How to Serve Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or toasted nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and sharpness that contrasts nicely with the creamy pesto. Fresh basil leaves scattered around also bring a fresh aroma and a pop of color that make the dish feel special.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon or balsamic, offering a bright counterbalance. Roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled vegetables also complement the richness of the pesto for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pasta in individual bowls topped with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant twist. Or plate it beside homemade garlic bread for a comforting feast that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The vibrant green sauce always makes a striking presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce, so stir in a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water when reheating to revive its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the pesto sauce separately in small containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the pasta itself to maintain texture. When ready, thaw the pesto and toss it with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.

Reheating

Reheat leftover pasta gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding small amounts of pasta water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. This gentle warming keeps the dish creamy and avoids drying out the greens and pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other greens besides spinach and kale in this Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with arugula, Swiss chard, or even parsley. These greens can add different layers of flavor while keeping the pesto fresh and vibrant.

Is it necessary to toast the nuts?

Toasting the nuts is highly recommended because it enhances their flavor and adds a delightful nuttiness to the pesto that raw nuts won’t provide.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What type of pasta works best with this pesto?

Any pasta can work, but shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the pesto well thanks to their grooves and texture.

How long can I keep the pesto sauce if made separately?

If stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the pesto sauce will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Adding a thin layer of olive oil on top helps prevent oxidation and keeps the vibrant green color.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Super Greens Pesto Pasta Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug wrapped in beautiful green goodness. It’s quick to make, nourishing, and packed with flavor that never gets old. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how much joy a simple, fresh pesto pasta can bring to your table. Trust me, it’ll become a fast favorite in your weeknight rotation!

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