Green Pea Spinach Pasta (Printable)

Silky green sauce with peas and spinach coats protein-rich pasta for a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12.3 oz protein pasta (chickpea, lentil-based, or whole wheat)

→ Green Sauce

02 - 7 oz frozen green peas
03 - 3.5 oz baby spinach leaves
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped
06 - 1 oz fresh basil leaves
07 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth or water
09 - 2.8 oz Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
10 - 1 oz grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
11 - 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
12 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
13 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Topping

14 - Zest of 1 lemon
15 - 0.7 oz toasted pine nuts (optional)
16 - Extra Parmesan or nutritional yeast

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook protein pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 3.4 fl oz pasta cooking water, drain the pasta, and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic, sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
03 - Add frozen peas and spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until peas are heated through and spinach is wilted.
04 - Transfer 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.
05 - Return drained pasta to the pot. Pour green sauce over pasta and gently toss to coat evenly. Warm over low heat if necessary.
06 - Dish into bowls and garnish with lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, and additional Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Protein-packed and vegetarian
  • Bright green, fresh flavor
02 -
  • For a vegan version use plant based yogurt and nutritional yeast instead of Greek yogurt and Parmesan
  • Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon
03 -
  • Add grilled chicken sautéed tofu or roasted chickpeas for extra protein
  • Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness for creamiest texture
Return