Irresistible Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta Recipe

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

April 29, 2025

Updated:

April 29, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of spinach and white beans that transforms an ordinary pasta dish into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine twirling your fork through a vibrant green sauce, rich with the earthy goodness of beans and the freshness of basil. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, eager to dive in. Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The moment they took their first bite, their eyes widened in delight. It became an instant favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply trying to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters, this recipe never disappoints. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have you dreaming about it long after the last bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make pasta dish combines fresh flavors with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal
Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it adapts easily to any dietary needs
Plus, leftovers are just as delightful!

I whipped up this delightful dish last week for my friends’ gathering and they all kept asking for seconds—it was a hit!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green leaves without yellow spots; baby spinach offers a tender texture that’s perfect for pesto.
Canned White Beans: Choose cannellini or great northern beans; they add creaminess and protein without overpowering flavors.
Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts bring a nutty richness to the pesto; feel free to substitute walnuts if needed.
Fresh Basil: Look for fragrant basil leaves; they elevate the pesto with a burst of herbal freshness that’s simply irresistible.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds depth and umami; use freshly grated for best results.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; drizzle generously into your pesto blend.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings aromatic spice; adjust based on personal preference—more garlic means more flavor!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds acidity that balances everything beautifully.
Pasta of Choice: I prefer whole wheat spaghetti or fettuccine; they hold up well against the pesto’s creaminess.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. Chop spinach and basil roughly so they fit easily into your blender.

Blend the Pesto: In a food processor, combine spinach, white beans, pine nuts, garlic, basil, lemon juice, and parmesan. Pulse until smooth while drizzling in olive oil until desired consistency is reached.

Cook Your Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente—don’t forget to reserve some pasta water!

Toss It All Together: Drain pasta but retain about half a cup of cooking water. In a large bowl, mix hot pasta with pesto. If it seems dry, stir in reserved pasta water gradually until creamy.

Add Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary with salt and pepper. Serve immediately garnished with extra parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

With every step, you’ll notice how each ingredient creates layers of flavor that meld together beautifully. Enjoy diving into this delicious Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta that’s not just easy but also fun to prepare!

You Must Know

This Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors, making it a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste
The vibrant green pesto adds a fresh aroma, and the creamy white beans bring a hearty texture that will leave you satisfied

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then blend the spinach and beans for a creamy pesto sauce. Combine everything together for a quick, flavorful meal.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap spinach with kale or add roasted garlic for an extra flavor boost. You can also toss in some cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.

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 maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta shines with fresh ingredients; use seasonal produce for enhanced flavor
Always taste your sauce before adding more salt or seasoning, as beans can vary in saltiness
A sprinkle of lemon juice can brighten up the dish beautifully

Cooking this Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta always reminds me of my college days when my friends would gather in my tiny kitchen, and we’d whip up meals that were surprisingly delicious given our limited resources.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach for the pesto?

Yes, frozen spinach works well; just thaw and drain it before blending.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Any pasta shape works, but whole wheat or gluten-free options add extra nutrition.

How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly; simply ensure all ingredients are plant-based!

0 Shares