There’s something magical about the combination of spinach, white beans, and pesto that transforms a simple pasta dish into a feast for the senses. Imagine twirling strands of al dente pasta coated in a vibrant green sauce, fragrant with garlic and fresh basil, while creamy white beans add a delightful texture. Your taste buds will dance with joy as the flavors mingle in perfect harmony.
Every time I whip up this Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta, it transports me back to cozy dinners with friends, where laughter and good food filled the air. It’s that kind of dish you make when you want to impress but also enjoy a laid-back evening. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe never fails to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip it up in under 30 minutes
- The flavor profile is herbaceous and creamy, making it irresistibly delicious
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Versatile enough for any occasion, pair it with grilled chicken or serve it vegetarian
I remember one particular dinner when my friend took her first bite and exclaimed, “This is my new favorite pasta!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green leaves; they should be crisp and free from wilting for maximum flavor.
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White Beans: Canned or cooked dried beans work well; they add creaminess and protein to the dish.
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Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts give the pesto its signature nutty flavor; don’t skip this step!
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Garlic: Fresh cloves enhance the aroma; opt for firm garlic heads for the best taste.
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Fresh Basil Leaves: Use aromatic basil for that classic pesto flavor; be generous!
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Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the dish and balances out the richness of the beans.
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Pasta of Choice: Any shape works, but I love using spaghetti or fettuccine for their texture.
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Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil makes all the difference in flavor.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth and richness; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop to streamline your cooking process. Rinse spinach thoroughly under cold water and dry it gently with a towel.
Make the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine fresh spinach, white beans, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and basil leaves. Pulse until finely chopped before drizzling in olive oil until smooth.
Add Lemon Juice and Cheese: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pesto mixture along with grated Parmesan cheese. Blend again until fully incorporated; taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cook Your Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente—don’t forget to reserve some pasta water!
Toss Everything Together: Drain pasta but retain some cooking water; return pasta to the pot. Pour in your freshly made pesto sauce and mix well while adding reserved water as needed to create a creamy consistency.
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your beautifully tossed Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta while it’s hot! You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or pine nuts for added flair before serving it up to eager guests.
You Must Know
- This Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in greens
- Its bright flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser while being quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal results, start by cooking your pasta al dente while blending the pesto. Once the pasta is ready, toss it with the freshly made pesto for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by adding grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some chili flakes for heat. Experimenting can create a unique meal every time.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spinach for vibrant color and flavor, and don’t skip toasting the nuts for added depth
- Adjusting the garlic level can cater to your taste preferences perfectly
Cooking this dish brings back memories of that one dinner party where everyone went back for seconds; they couldn’t get enough of it!
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well; just make sure it’s thoroughly drained before blending.
What can I use instead of white beans?
Chickpeas or cannellini beans are great alternatives that still provide creaminess.
Is this dish vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is entirely plant-based and nutritious.
Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta. Bursting with fresh flavors, creamy white beans, and fragrant garlic, this dish is perfect for both impressing guests and enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a delicious way to sneak in some greens while keeping mealtime exciting.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and dried
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti or fettuccine recommended)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by gathering everything on the counter.
- In a food processor, blend spinach, white beans, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and basil until finely chopped. Drizzle in olive oil to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan; blend until fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Toss the drained pasta with the pesto sauce in the pot, adding reserved water as needed for creaminess.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or pine nuts if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
