Peas and Spinach Pesto Pasta

Peas and Spinach Pesto Pasta – Yummy and healthy farfalle pasta tossed in a green basil pesto sauce with sautéed shallots, garlic, peas, spinach, and a light zesty flavor. Serve with grated parmesan cheese and it’s a delight!

Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal, this recipe is a delicious and healthy option to consider. A simple yet delicious recipe that only requires a few simple ingredients, this recipe will become a favorite in your home as soon as you try it.

Having leftover peas and spinach in my fridge, I found this recipe while looking for ways to use them. It was a pleasant surprise how flavorful and satisfying the dish was. Adding a fresh and herbaceous twist to the classic pasta dish, the creamy pesto sauce combines peas, spinach, basil, and garlic.

Pesto sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta and sandwiches to grilled meats and vegetables. A rich and flavorful sauce produced by combining herbs, nuts, and cheese is perfect for adding flavor to any dish.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Peas and Spinach Pesto Pasta as much as I did!

Ingredients you’ll need for this recipe

This pesto pasta recipe requires just a few ingredients;

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – this recipe works with other kinds of pasta too.

• Olive oil is used to coat the pasta and add flavor to the dish. It helps to prevent the pasta from sticking together and adds a smooth, silky texture to the dish.

• Shallots are a type of onion that has a milder flavor than regular onions. They add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to this pesto pasta dish.

• Garlic adds a strong, pungent flavor to the dish and can help to add depth and complexity to the overall taste.

• Store-bought basil pesto is a no-frills way to go. Pesto is a sauce made from basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. It adds a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish and helps to bring all of the flavors together.

• Frozen peas add a pop of color and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor to the dish. They also add a bit of texture and crunch to the pasta. It’s okay to use fresh peas as well, probably even better.

• Baby spinach is a leafy green that adds a mild, slightly bitter flavor to the dish. It also adds some nutrients and fiber to the dish.

• Lemon zest and lemon juice add a bright, citrusy flavor. They can help to balance out the richness of the other ingredients we are adding and add a fresh, light taste to the dish.

• Salt and black pepper are used to season the pasta and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. They help to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the peas pesto pasta dish and helps to add richness and depth of flavor. Use it as a garnish by grating some after dishing. It adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

(See the recipe card for recipe measurements, list, and instructions).

Preparation steps for peas spinach and pesto pasta

1. Boil water, add salt add pasta. Cook pasta until tender but firm.
2. Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet. Add the shallots. Let them fry till they turn light brown/ golden. Add garlic and fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the pesto sauce and mix well to combine. Pour in the peas and mix with sauce. Now add 1 cup of pasta water and stir to combine.
4. After the sauce has thickened and reduced, add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir to allow them to infuse into the sauce for a bit.
5. Drain the pasta. Add them to the sauce and toss gently to coat.

How to store leftovers

To store leftovers of this Peas and Spinach Pesto Pasta recipe, simply place the remaining pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep for 3-5 days in the fridge.

You can also freeze the leftovers for longer storage. To do this, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat the leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave them until heated through.

When reheating the pasta, you may need to add a splash of water or milk to the dish to loosen up the pesto sauce. Stir the pasta well to evenly distribute the sauce before serving. Enjoy!

Final notes

I hope you enjoyed learning about this recipe for Peas and Spinach Pesto Pasta! Not only is this dish delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients and protein thanks to the peas and spinach. The pesto sauce adds a fresh and herby twist to the classic pasta dish, making it a unique and flavorful option for dinner.

I encourage you to try out this recipe and make it your own by adding your own twists or variations. Also, maybe you want to add some grilled chicken or vegetables for extra protein and nutrients. Or perhaps you want to switch up the type of pasta or cheese used in the recipe. Whatever you choose, I hope you enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own.

Thank you for following along and trying out this recipe. Let me know if it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen.

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