Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A wholesome and flavorful pasta dish made with spinach, white beans, and a vibrant pesto sauce. It’s a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (any variety)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the white beans and cook for another 2 minutes until warmed through.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with the pesto and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine everything evenly.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
  7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if using, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added dietary preferences.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Can be served warm or as a cold pasta salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg