Lemony Spinach Pesto Pasta with Veggies

Looking for a quick, vibrant, and delicious meal? Look no further than this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies recipe! In just 20 minutes, you can have a bowl full of zesty pesto, crunchy vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta that’s both gluten-free and vegan. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

The beauty of this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies lies in its simplicity and versatility. With each forkful, you’ll taste the brightness of lemon, the freshness of the veggies, and the comforting texture of pasta. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

So, grab your favorite gluten-free pasta, load up on those vibrant veggies, and get ready to whip up a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. Let the flavors of the lemony pesto and the crunch of the veggies transport you to a place of pure culinary bliss. It’s time to indulge in a meal that’s not just good for you but also a feast for the senses!

Quick Benefits

• Fresh and Healthy Ingredients: Celebrate fresh vegetables, baby spinach, and zesty lemon for a bright and satisfying meal.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Suitable for those with dietary restrictions, this dish is both gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
• Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without the long prep time.
• Customizable and Adaptable: Easily adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have on hand, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Lemony Spinach Pesto Pasta with Veggies Recipe

• Fresh and Bright Flavors: The zesty lemony spinach pesto paired with crunchy vegetables creates a vibrant and refreshing taste that will leave you feeling satisfied.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, this dish is both gluten-free and vegan, making it a versatile option for a variety of eaters.
• Celebrates Fresh Ingredients: The recipe highlights the natural flavors of fresh vegetables, baby spinach, and lemon, creating a wholesome and delicious dish.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily adaptable based on personal preferences or ingredient availability, allowing you to customize the recipe to suit your taste.
• Tips and Tricks: The recipe includes helpful tips for achieving the perfect dish, such as not overcooking the veggies and utilizing pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, making it foolproof for even novice cooks.

Ingredients for Lemony Spinach Pesto Pasta with Veggies

• Salt (1/8-1/4 teaspoon).
• Pine nuts (1/4 cup).
• Asparagus, cut (1 cup).
• Broccoli florets (2 heaping cups).
• Extra virgin olive oil (1/3 cup).
• Black pepper (pinch).
• Optional cheese for serving.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons).
• Sun dried tomatoes in oil (1/2 cup).
• Lemon zest (1-2 teaspoons).
• Fresh spinach (2 cups packed).
• Gluten-free pasta (8-12 oz).

Pro Tips for Lemony Spinach Pesto Pasta with Veggies

When making this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies, remember not to overcook the veggies to maintain their crunch. Keeping them slightly crisp adds a delightful texture to the dish. Additionally, keep a close eye on the pine nuts while toasting to prevent them from burning – they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to bitter.

Feel free to customize this recipe by using your preferred type of pasta. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions and save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed. You can also switch up the nuts in the pesto by using walnuts or almonds if you don’t have pine nuts on hand. Just remember to toast them beforehand for the best flavor.

How to Make Lemony Spinach Pesto Pasta with Veggies

Step 1: Step 01

Bring water to a boil, chop vegetables, and toast pine nuts.

Step 2: Step 02

Cook broccoli and asparagus for 1-2 minutes until vibrant and just tender.

Step 3: Step 03

Cook pasta in the same water until al dente.

Step 4: Step 04

Puree spinach, nuts, lemon, and oil until creamy.

Step 5: Step 05

Combine pasta, vegetables, pesto, and tomatoes.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies, store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness. If you have extra pasta with the pesto and veggies, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the flavors and prevent the dish from drying out.

To store the spinach pesto separately, place it in a jar or airtight container, ensuring the pesto is covered with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning. The pesto can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Remember to bring it to room temperature before using it on fresh pasta or as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. Proper storage will help maintain the flavors and quality of the dish for delicious leftovers or quick meals throughout the week.

Ingredient Substitutions

For this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies recipe, you have the flexibility to make some ingredient substitutions based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you don’t have gluten-free pasta, you can use regular pasta or any other type of pasta you enjoy. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

If you don’t have pine nuts, you can easily swap them out for walnuts or almonds to add a nutty richness to the pesto. Toasting the nuts before using them will enhance their flavor and aroma. You can also experiment with different nuts like pistachios or cashews for a unique twist.

Feel free to customize the vegetable selection to suit your taste. You can use a variety of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just be mindful of adjusting the blanching time based on the vegetables’ texture and size to ensure they retain a nice crunch. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own with ingredient substitutions that work best for you!

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Additionally, serving this dish with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette can complement the flavors beautifully. Enjoy this vibrant and nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch option!

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing the pasta with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of elegance. You can also serve this dish in individual baked pasta shells or hollowed-out zucchinis for a fun twist on traditional pasta presentations. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal at home or a vibrant dish to impress guests, this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies is versatile and delicious for any occasion.

FAQs for Lemony Spinach Pesto Pasta with Veggies

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Just adjust cooking time according to package directions and keep the pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.

Can I substitute pine nuts with a different ingredient?

While pine nuts provide traditional flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds. Just make sure to toast them first for the best flavor.

Can I make the spinach pesto in advance?

The spinach pesto can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before using.

Is it possible to customize the vegetable selection in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize with your favorite vegetables. Just adjust blanching time based on their size and texture.

Conclusion

The versatility and simplicity of this Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies recipe make it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this pasta delivers on both taste and ease of preparation. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will have you feeling like a culinary pro in no time.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, get that pasta boiling, and whip up a batch of this delightful Pasta with Lemony Spinach Pesto and Veggies. The combination of zesty lemon, nutty pine nuts, and crunchy veggies will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious meal and savor every bite knowing that you’ve nourished your body with wholesome ingredients. Here’s to many more delightful pasta nights ahead!